These days I am traveling across the United States and Canada to celebrate Republic Day together with our communities. Each stage is an encounter with a living part of our identity but in Canada this bond takes on a particular meaning.
Here, the Italian community has not only taken root: it has built, stone by stone, an important piece of the country. After the Second World War, thousands of our compatriots rolled up their sleeves and
contributed decisively to the development of construction, infrastructure, manufacturing, industry and entrepreneurship.
It is a story made of effort, courage, sacrifices but also –and above all – of dignity and success. A history that has left an indelible mark on the economic and social fabric of Canada.
In the sign of this vocation to do, to unite, to build bridges, I had the pleasure of meeting our ambassador, Alessandro Cattaneo and the honor of getting to know Francois-Philippe Champagne, current Minister of Finance of Canada, at the Embassy of Italy in Ottawa.
With the Minister – who over the years has held leading roles as Minister of International Trade, Infrastructure, Foreign Affairs and Innovation – we discussed the key role of our community and the collaboration between Italy and Canada.
We talked about concrete synergies, common projects, how human and cultural ties can translate into opportunities for both nations. Because Italians in the world have never been simple migrants: they are ambassadors of talent, values and culture. Wherever they go, they bring with them an industrious, respected, capable Italy.
Today more than ever, their contribution represents the key to building a shared future, made of friendship, trust and new alliances.
