Giorgia Meloni at the NIAF gala 2022

"Freedom, equality and democracy". These are the founding values ​​of the "unshakable alliance, strategic partnership and true and deep friendship" that binds Italy and the United States.

This was supported by the new Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, in a video greeting made on the occasion of the gala for the 47th anniversary of the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), held on Saturday evening 29 October 2022 in Washington DC.

Dear friends of the National Italian American Foundation,

I am very pleased to be attending the NIAF's 47th Gala Awards just a few days after my appointment as Prime Minister.

I feel the great honor and responsibility of being the first woman to lead Italy. In my task I will follow in the footsteps of the many great Italian women who have paved the way for me and for generations to come.

Italy, whose ancient roots and unique beauty are recognized all over the world, is the result of the ingenuity of its people, here and abroad.

Italy, a member country of the G7, also boasts an incredible supply of small and medium-sized enterprises, internationally recognized scientific and academic institutions and an ever-growing pole of innovation.

Only by working together can we be successful in facing the many challenges that await us.

Italians who have crossed the Atlantic over the past two centuries have greatly contributed to the development, prosperity and strength of the United States, as President Biden acknowledged in his Columbus Day proclamation. They worked every day to build a bridge between the 'America and Italy: made up of common values ​​- freedom, equality and democracy - an unshakable alliance, a strategic partnership and a true and deep friendship. You are great ambassadors of our country. We count on your friendship and knowledge to help us foster closer bonds for years to come.

Thank you! For guarding your Italian heritage and taking it with you with so much pride! I assure you that this government will do its best to strengthen relations with the United States.

Long live America, Viva l'Italia !