Italy Celebrates 80th Anniversary of Republic at Ottawa Diplomatic Reception

The Embassy of Italy in Ottawa marked the 80th anniversary of the Italian Republic with a prestigious reception held at the National Gallery of Canada, bringing together more than 600 distinguished guests from political, cultural, academic, and business communities.

The event was attended by senior Canadian officials, including Speaker of the House of Commons Francis Scarpaleggia, federal ministers, senators, members of parliament, and representatives from across Canada’s institutional and Italian-Canadian communities.

Opening remarks were delivered on behalf of the National Gallery by Thomas d’Aquino, Chair Emeritus of the National Gallery of Canada Foundation and a prominent figure in Canada’s business and philanthropic sectors. Ambassador Alessandro Cattaneo highlighted the strong and enduring relationship between Italy and Canada, emphasizing shared democratic values, freedom, and a common commitment to addressing global challenges.

The ambassador underlined the close cooperation between the two countries within major international platforms such as NATO, the G7, and the United Nations. He also referenced recent high-level discussions between Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney during the European Political Community Summit in Yerevan, noting continued strengthening of bilateral ties.

Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand also addressed the gathering, reaffirming the positive diplomatic relationship between Italy and Canada and highlighting collaboration with Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. Additional remarks were delivered by Secretary of State for Labour John Zerucelli, further reinforcing the spirit of partnership.

The Ottawa reception formed part of a wider series of events celebrating Italian Heritage Month across Canada. These initiatives are organized through cooperation between Italy’s diplomatic and consular network, Canadian authorities at provincial and municipal levels, and Italian-Canadian organizations.

As part of the broader celebrations, Ambassador Cattaneo recently participated in a flag-raising ceremony on Parliament Hill organized by the Canada–Italy Interparliamentary Friendship Group. He also attended Republic Day events in Toronto and is scheduled to continue commemorative engagements in Montréal and Niagara Falls.

The series of celebrations reflects the deep cultural connections and expanding diplomatic partnership between Italy and Canada, underscoring shared values and long-standing cooperation on the global stage.
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