by InTrieste
The upcoming visit of President Sergio Mattarella to this border city marks a significant moment in the growing ties between Italy and Slovenia. His fourth visit to Friuli Venezia Giulia in the past year, Mattarella’s presence on February 8 is expected to draw attention as the region celebrates a historic milestone: the shared cultural heritage of Italy and Slovenia.
In a statement that reflects the pride of local leaders, Romina Kocina, director of the European Grouping of Territorial Cooperation (EGTC), said, “The confirmation in black and white makes us happy.” The event, anticipated since last December, was made official when President Mattarella confirmed his participation, following prior discussions with Slovenia’s President, Nataša Pirc Musar, in Rome.
The celebrations, set to unfold throughout the day, will kick off with a unique performance by the Italian and Slovenian police bands, playing together for the first time in the streets of Gorizia at 10 a.m. The joint procession will cross the border through the San Gabriele crossing, and later, the two heads of state will arrive together at Piazza Transalpina by train.
The official ceremony is scheduled for 4:00 PM in Piazza Transalpina, a site of symbolic importance, where the leaders will unite for the occasion. According to Gorizia’s Mayor Rodolfo Ziberna, the event will be a “celebration of the people.” He and Governor Massimiliano Fedriga will travel to Rome next week to present the full calendar of events at Palazzo Grazioli, the former residence of Silvio Berlusconi, now home to the foreign press.
The Italian government’s representation will likely come from Minister of Culture Alessandro Giuli, while Slovenia’s Minister of Culture, Asta Vrečko, is expected to attend as the event’s key sponsor. Notably absent will be Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who will not be attending.
The celebration marks more than just the ties between two neighboring countries; it is a testament to the shared history and culture of the region. Over the past year, President Mattarella has become a familiar face in Friuli Venezia Giulia. His visit in February will mark his fourth trip to the region in just 12 months. His previous visits included a significant moment in Trieste, where he was awarded an honorary degree alongside former Slovenian President Borut Pahor. In July, he also attended the Catholic Social Week, and in September, he visited Ampezzo for the 80th anniversary of the Autonomous Republic in the Free Zone of Carnia.
The celebration, culminating in a powerful display of unity in Gorizia, is a reminder of the enduring strength of cross-border cooperation between Italy and Slovenia. The festivities set the stage for even deeper collaboration, bringing together the cultures, histories, and people of both nations.
As President Mattarella’s train rolls into Piazza Transalpina, it will not just be a journey across the border but a symbolic passage toward a future strengthened by shared history and mutual respect.
