Italy’s Undersecretary for Foreign Affairs, Massimo Dell’Utri, has begun his official visit to Australia in Melbourne, attending the closing ceremony of Rome: Empire, Power, People, a major archaeological exhibition celebrating the extraordinary heritage of ancient Rome.
The diplomatic mission, taking place from 25 to 28 October, aims to strengthen political dialogue and expand economic, cultural and institutional cooperation between Italy and Australia, with engagements scheduled in Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra.
The Undersecretary was welcomed by Italy’s Ambassador to Australia, Nicola Lener, and the Consul General in Melbourne, Chiara Mauri, who highlighted the exhibition’s success and its contribution to promoting Italian culture.
The exhibition was made possible through collaboration between Australian cultural institutions, the National Roman Museum and the National Archaeological Museum of Florence.
Addressing those gathered, Dell’Utri expressed his appreciation for the Italian community, declaring: “I have come here to thank you, because it is important to recognise the sense of Italian identity, the desire to remain Italian even when living abroad. That is the most beautiful thing.”
He described the exhibition as an important undertaking that had successfully engaged the local community, extending well beyond the Italian Australian population.
Dell’Utri also emphasised that relations between Italy and Australia are continuing to strengthen, acknowledging the contribution of Italian communities to this growing partnership.
Following his Melbourne engagements, the Undersecretary will travel to Sydney and Canberra for institutional meetings, discussions with Australian representatives and encounters with local Italian communities.
His programme also includes a visit to the IMARC mining and resources exhibition, providing an opportunity to explore industrial cooperation, technological innovation and investment opportunities between the two countries. The mission reflects Italy’s growing interest in Australia as a strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific.
Read our full coverage of Dell’Utri’s Australian visit in this Friday’s special edition of ALLORA!
