UNITED STATES | NIAF Hosts Ambassador Zappia and Italian American Congressional Delegation
(Washington, D.C. – December 9, 2021) The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) honored the Ambassador of Italy to the United States, Mariangela Zappia on Tuesday, December 7th, at one of Washington’s most exquisite Italian restaurants, Fiola, a restaurant by Michelin-starred Chef Fabio Trabocchi. The event was also attended by numerous members of the Italian American Congressional Delegation including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and officials from the Embassy of Italy. The event was hosted by the Government Affairs Committee of NIAF co-chaired by the Hon. Anita Bevacqua McBride, former assistant to President George W. Bush and Chief of Staff to First Lady Laura Bush, and John Calvelli, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs for the Wildlife Conservation Society.
“Tuesday night’s dinner shows that Italy and the United States are great allies who have many supporters in the US Congress,” said NIAF Chairman Robert E. Carlucci. “It’s promising to see our nation’s leaders come together, despite diverse political backgrounds, to celebrate our shared Italian American heritage.”
“Today’s Italy is the tradition you know well, but Italy is also a leader in innovation, science, hi-tech, sustainability, all fields where our cooperation is growing stronger than ever,” said the Ambassador, emphasizing that Italy is also a protagonist on the global stage, as shown by its chairmanship of the G20 this year.
The evening was an opportunity to celebrate the close bonds of friendship and collaboration between Italy and the United States, which span all areas. Thanks to the contribution of the Italian American community and members of the Italian American Congressional delegation, this close tie continues to thrive and prosper over time.
“Italy and the U.S. are natural allies, trusted partners, close friends. In this chaotic global scenario, our bond counts more than ever. Let us make the most of our partnership and, together, shape the future,” the Ambassador concluded.
Zappia was appointed as Italy’s Ambassador to the United States in July of 2021. A career diplomat with over 35 years of experience, she is the first woman to assume the role.
