by MK
In a notable step for the region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, a delegation led by Governor Massimiliano Fedriga and Regional Councilor for Tourism Sergio Emidio Bini concluded a high-stakes mission in the United States with a series of meetings and a landmark agreement signing in New York City this week. The delegation’s objectives centered on cultivating investment opportunities, promoting cultural exchanges, and strengthening relationships with American counterparts, setting the stage for an intensified economic partnership between the region and the United States.
The mission wrapped up with a prominent event at Intesa Sanpaolo’s New York offices, where Governor Fedriga and Councillor Bini were joined by Italy’s Deputy Consul General Marta Mammana, along with Nicola Baiocchi Di Silvestri, the Managing Director and Country Manager for the Americas at Intesa Sanpaolo’s IMI CIB Division. Also present were influential representatives from Italian companies, regional enterprises based in the U.S., and members of think tanks such as Gei (Gruppo Esponenti Italiani).
Reflecting on the week’s achievements, Councillor Bini, speaking with InTrieste, described the experience as “very busy but immensely productive.” He emphasized the signing of a multi-year agreement with the state of Virginia as a major milestone. “This agreement encompasses business, cultural exchanges, and multiple sectors, marking a first of its kind for our region,” Bini explained. The mission also included productive exchanges with leading economic groups, U.S. chambers of commerce, and institutions. A grand gala, held in collaboration with the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), saw attendance from distinguished figures representing both Italy and the United States, underscoring the event’s significance.
As part of the ongoing initiative to promote Friuli Venezia Giulia’s cultural and economic assets, Bini noted that the delegation engaged with American tour operators and journalists to enhance the region’s visibility. “It was important not just to promote Friuli Venezia Giulia, but to convey a comprehensive understanding of the investment and cultural richness that our region offers,” Bini said.
Governor Fedriga, in his address, spotlighted Friuli Venezia Giulia’s strategic appeal for American investors, citing the region’s advanced research and innovation infrastructure and its unique geographical positioning at the crossroads of Central and Eastern Europe. Fedriga outlined the region’s investment strategy, which has focused in recent years on areas like Industry 5.0, energy, logistics, and agribusiness, with tourism slated to play a central role in Friuli Venezia Giulia’s future economic growth.
At the mission’s conclusion, Governor Fedriga expressed confidence in the strengthening ties with the U.S., describing American states as increasingly valuable partners. “These relations with the United States are not only project-based but also reflect strategic alliances. A long-term vision requires precise and unwavering commitments,” he stated. The governor added that, despite passing the honor of Region of Honor from the National Italian American Foundation to Lazio, Friuli Venezia Giulia would continue to deepen its partnership with the NIAF.
This week’s agreement between Friuli Venezia Giulia and Virginia outlines collaboration across agriculture, industry, commerce, and tourism. As part of its strategy to foster interest in the region, PromoTurismoFVG coordinated events to showcase Friuli Venezia Giulia’s culinary and cultural heritage, while Select Friuli Venezia Giulia facilitated discussions with U.S. business leaders on potential investment ventures.
With a concerted focus on fostering lasting connections with American states and institutions, Friuli Venezia Giulia’s U.S. mission signals a broader shift towards building stronger cross-Atlantic partnerships. As Councilor Bini concluded, “These have been intense but promising days.”
Interview: regional councilor for tourism, Sergio Bini; NIAF’s John Calvelli
