Today, Italy observes Republic Day, a moment to contemplate the principles of freedom, personal rights, and labor that form the foundation of our Constitution. This occasion also serves to celebrate the collaborations that enable us to promote these ideals worldwide. The partnership between Italy and the UAE stands out as one of the most dynamic and forward-looking.
This year’s observance holds particular importance. Just months ago, Italy hosted the inaugural state visit from a UAE President. President Sheikh Mohamed’s visit was genuinely historic, signifying the start of a new strategic alliance between our countries.
Italy and the UAE share a long-standing history. For centuries, Italian and Arab traders traversed the spice route, exchanging not only goods but also ideas and talent. Even in an era lacking trade assurances, swift codes, or arbitration systems, Italians ventured to the Gulf driven by trust. This trust remains, and in a world marked by uncertainty, our capacity to depend on each other is what truly unites us. This legacy is still visible today, exemplified by the recent exhibition “From Sharjah to Rome via the Spice Route” at the Roman Forum, which highlighted our enduring exchanges and mutual influences.
The connection we share is not only rooted in history but also looks ahead. This vision is encapsulated in the motto for this year’s Republic Day: “Forging the Future Together.”
Over recent months, this vision has materialized into tangible results. Trade between our nations has achieved unprecedented levels, with Italian exports to the UAE now surpassing those to Egypt, Morocco, and Libya combined. Notably, we export more to the UAE than to India, a country with over 140 times its population. Currently, over 600 Italian companies are operating in the UAE, and investments from Italy have surged by more than 50 percent in the last five years.
Given this, it is no surprise that Italy was the first nation to request the European Commission to initiate negotiations for a free trade agreement with the UAE. With these negotiations now underway, we are hopeful for a swift conclusion. Italy and the UAE are also collaborating on the new India-Middle East-Europe economic corridor, a vital connection between our continents that will foster new growth opportunities.
The UAE’s commitment to invest up to €40 billion (Dh167 billion) in Italy signifies a profound level of confidence and shared goals. These investments are concentrated on priorities such as artificial intelligence, energy transition, real estate, digital infrastructure, space exploration, and rare earth supply chains. Our collaboration spans diverse sectors, from the depths of the oceans to the expanse of space. Recently launched ambitious projects include the establishment of an advanced data center in Italy utilizing cutting-edge carbon capture technology and a significant initiative employing Europe’s largest supercomputer cluster located in Italy, as well as new space cooperation programs.
Our relationship is strengthened not only by strategic factors but also by personal connections, familial ties, and social interactions. More than 20,000 Italians reside and work in the UAE, fully integrated into a diverse society that represents over 200 nationalities. They contribute their expertise, creativity, and the essence of Italian culture. Among this community, over 160 Italian academics and researchers are actively engaged in pioneering projects across various institutions in the UAE.
Together with the UAE, we feel a responsibility to assist those in need through humanitarian efforts.
Our partnership also extends globally. Italy and the UAE are actively engaging in efforts within Africa, fostering prosperity with a cooperative approach towards governments and communities across this vibrant continent filled with opportunities. This spirit also characterizes our global diplomatic efforts. Italy and the UAE champion dialogue over divisiveness, hope over hopelessness, and tolerance over extremism.
Alongside the UAE, we feel it is our duty to provide humanitarian assistance. We have extended significant aid to civilians in Gaza, who have suffered for far too long. It is primarily the children, the elderly, and the vulnerable who endure the most hardship. As articulated by Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani, the violence in Gaza must cease immediately, humanitarian aid must be resumed without delay, and international humanitarian law must be upheld.
In particular, we resonate with the peace messages of Pope Leo XIV, which echo from Rome to the globe, and we continue to draw inspiration from the Document on Human Fraternity signed in Abu Dhabi in 2019, which guides our dedication to interfaith dialogue.
The essence of this Republic Day is clear: Italy and the UAE’s long-standing history is built upon mutual trust. However, our true strength lies not merely in our shared past, but in our prospective partnership.
By leveraging our mutual trust and collective vision, we can indeed “Forge the Future Together.”