Italy‑U.S. alliance reaffirmed at Independence Day celebrations

President Sergio Mattarella received the Fulbright Commission at the Quirinale, stressing that peace is built through reciprocal cultural and scientific exchange. He recalled Senator J. William Fulbright’s vision of fostering knowledge ties that generate respect and international cooperation, noting the program’s scale – more than 155 countries and about 7,500 scholarships awarded each year since 1946.

Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, speaking at a reception for the U.S. Independence Day ceremony in Rome, affirmed that “the friendship between Italy and the United States is stronger than any polemic.” He highlighted the importance of frank dialogue, mutual respect, and the “solidarity transatlantic” that underpins the alliance. Tajani also pointed to growing Italian exports to the United States (+2.3 % in the first five months of 2026) and announced plans for the “Ponte sullo Stretto,” a major infrastructure project to be built with U.S. partnership.

Ambassador Tilman J. Fertitta echoed the sentiment, calling Italy a “trusted partner” and praising the depth of bilateral relations. The event also featured other officials, including Vice‑Prime Minister Matteo Salvini and former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, underscoring the broad political backing for the Italy‑U.S. partnership.