by InTrieste
In a move aimed at deepening transatlantic ties, the Italian region of Friuli Venezia Giulia has formalized a partnership with the Commonwealth of Virginia, pledging collaboration in agriculture, industry, commerce, and tourism.
The agreement, signed in Richmond by Friuli Venezia Giulia’s Governor Massimiliano Fedriga and Virginia’s Governor Glenn Youngkin, marks a commitment to bolstering economic and cultural exchanges between the two regions over a five-year renewable period. Joining the ceremony were key officials, including Sergio Emidio Bini, Friuli Venezia Giulia’s Regional Councillor for Production Activities and Tourism, along with representatives from Italy’s Select Friuli Venezia Giulia Agency and the Italian Consul General in Philadelphia, Cristina Mele.
“Today’s collaboration marks a significant step forward in strengthening relations between our region, its productive fabric, and the United States,” said Governor Fedriga. “This partnership presents a valuable opportunity for our businesses interested in expanding internationally, connecting with new markets, or discovering new commercial partners. It is also a strong step toward attracting new investments to our territory.”
The partnership’s agricultural component aims to foster mutual growth by mapping and connecting American and Italian stakeholders, facilitating joint seminars, and exchanging best practices. Fedriga noted that this emphasis on agriculture is part of Friuli Venezia Giulia’s broader strategy to bolster high-value sectors and equip its agricultural producers with insights and technologies that are gaining traction globally.
“In industry and commerce,” Fedriga added, “we will identify and connect stakeholders and organize collaborative seminars to explore new business opportunities.” This sector will be supported by the Select Friuli Venezia Giulia Agency, whose mission includes drawing investments to the region and supporting local businesses in their development efforts.
The tourism component of the agreement promises mutual promotional initiatives to attract visitors between Friuli Venezia Giulia and Virginia. Both regions will share best practices for tourism promotion and coordinate around significant events and initiatives, with the aim of attracting tourists from Virginia to Friuli Venezia Giulia and vice versa.
Governor Fedriga expressed optimism that this new venture could open more doors for his region’s visibility on the international stage, with tourism at the forefront. “In a time when our region is focusing intensely on international markets, this partnership is a timely boost for our tourism sector,” he said.
The newly signed pact underscores a growing trend among U.S. states and Italian regions to form localized partnerships that foster economic cooperation and cultural exchanges, proving that in today’s globalized world, local initiatives can drive substantial, cross-border impact.
