NEW YORK — Culture as a tool of foreign policy, the strength of Italian businesses and the influence of 20 million Americans of Italian descent: at the launch of La Stampa Usa in New York, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani discussed the many ties connecting Italy and the United States.

How important are cinema, art, food, fashion and design in keeping the bond between the two countries alive?

“The relationship between Italy and the United States goes far beyond political and economic alliances. It is a deep bond between two societies. For millions of Americans, their love of Italy began long before their first trip there. They discovered Italy through the films of Federico Fellini and Sergio Leone, heard it in the soundtracks of Ennio Morricone, tasted it in a plate of pasta and wore it in a Giorgio Armani suit.

“For Italy, culture is a strategic tool of foreign policy and a driver of growth. Through our Italian Cultural Institutes, we invest in cultural diplomacy to strengthen ties across the Atlantic. Major initiatives also play an important role, including Italian Cuisine Week in the World, Italian Fashion Days in the World and Italian Design Day, all of which are gaining momentum in the United States. And in 2027, Naples will host the America’s Cup.”

Why is people-to-people exchange so important?

“Institutions build bridges, but people cross them every day. That is why we want to invest in university and scientific cooperation, youth mobility, professional exchanges and cultural partnerships.

“Language plays a fundamental role in this dialogue. This year, we are celebrating the 80th anniversary of the Fulbright Program, and from October 19 to 25, events across the United States will mark the 26th edition of Italian Language Week in the World.”

How does the Foreign Ministry help Italian companies expand in the American market?

“The United States is the largest market outside the European Union for Made in Italy products. Despite tariffs, bilateral trade reached a record €105 billion in 2025, up 15%.

“Working with the Italian Trade Agency, SACE, SIMEST and other organizations within the Italian economic system, we help companies navigate the American market. The opening of SIMEST’s new New York office, which I inaugurated last September, is part of this effort.

“Since the beginning of 2026, we have provided more than €1.1 billion in subsidized financing, 10% of which has been earmarked for the U.S. market. Through SIMEST’s U.S. program, we have made €500 million available for subsidized loans and equity investments in companies with interests in the United States.

“And at the end of October, Vinitaly will make its debut in New York.”

What role do Italian Americans play in the relationship between the two countries?

“The Italian community in the United States is substantial, with more than 400,000 Italian citizens and millions of Americans of Italian descent. I highlighted the community’s role during my meeting with Secretary of State Marco Rubio in September.

“To strengthen their ties with Italy and revitalize our local communities, I have given new impetus to roots tourism, which encourages Italians living abroad and their descendants to rediscover the places their ancestors left behind.

“Another priority is to strengthen cooperation with Italian American organizations, beginning with the National Italian American Foundation. Finally, there is another important event on the horizon: the renewal of the Comites, the committees representing Italians living abroad.”

© All rights reserved.