On the occasion of his visit to Los Angeles, we met the Italian Ambassador in the United States, Marco Peronaci at the Institute of Culture in Los Angeles. A journey that touches some of the pillars of the relationship between Italy and the United States: from cinema to technological innovation, from the space economy to the Made in Italy, to the strategic role of the Italian-American community. In one of the global capitals of creativity and innovation, dialogue between the two countries is strengthened by looking at the future, without forgetting the roots.
Los Angeles is also a global hub for innovation, startups and space. What is the role of Italy in these strategic sectors?
One of the first visits I made in the United States was to NASA, Texas, Houston. And also here in California I wanted to visit the aerospace district, in addition to Caltech, where I met numerous Italian researchers and engineers. We discussed a lot of space because we recently signed an important agreement with the new NASA administration. Italy is the first country to have signed this kind of agreement. The United States is aiming to return to the Moon, with a stable presence, and Italy will contribute concretely, for example by building lunar housing modules. We also have innovative collaborations, such as Prada for new space suits: highly technological equipment that also represent Italian aesthetics and design. In short, there will be more and more a joint presence of Italy and the United States.
How important is the role of the Italian and Italian-American community in the United States?
It’s fundamental. It is not simply a matter of local realities, but of the very heart of the relationship between the two countries. I recently attended an NIAF event, the Italian-American National Association, and I was impressed by the energy and sense of belonging. The Italian-Americans represent an extraordinary bridge between past and future. Not only from the cultural and affective point of view, but also political and economic: many of them occupy important positions in science, institutions and the entrepreneurial world. Working with this community is a huge added value for the Italy system in the United States.
Let’s talk about Made in Italy: from fashion to kitchen. How are these sectors reacting even in the light of trade tensions and tariffs?
Made in Italy continues to show great strength. This year, for example, Mediterranean cuisine has been recognized as a heritage of humanity, and we have organized numerous events of great success. It is true, there were tensions related to tariffs, especially on some products such as pasta. It is not a policy that we welcome, but through dialogue with the American authorities we are finding solutions. Despite these difficulties, Italian exports grew by more than 5%. It is a very important signal: it demonstrates the resilience of our enterprises and the strength of a product that is not only excellence, but also culture, history and imagination.
You also have a long experience in NATO. How would you describe today the relationship between Italy and the United States strategically?
The transatlantic bond remains one of the main factors of global stability, especially in a complex historical moment. We recently reached a NATO agreement to strengthen investment in European defence. It is an important step, which goes in the direction of greater responsibility for Europe, but also of strengthening the relationship with the United States. This will also benefit our high-tech industries and will consolidate a long-term relationship that remains fundamental.
Looking to the future: from the Milan-Cortina Olympics in Los Angeles 2028. What are these great events?
These are extraordinary opportunities for visibility and collaboration. Italy has demonstrated with Milan-Cortina that it can organize complex events with great effectiveness. We recorded record numbers of American visitors, and we worked immediately in synergy with the United States in view of Los Angeles 2028. The Olympics are an ideal bridge between our countries: a shared story that combines sports, culture and economics. And this route will accompany us to the Los Angeles Games, in one of the most symbolic cities in the world.
Ambassador, Los Angeles is a symbol of world cinema. During his visit he also paid homage to Sophia Loren’s star. What role does Italy play today in the international film scene?
Italy has always played a central role in world cinema. It is one of the great iconic powers of international cinematography and continues to be. Just at the beginning of my visit I wanted to pay tribute to our great artists, because Los Angeles is a city that does not forget. I was also at the Academy Museum, where the names and faces of those who made the history of Italian cinema are still very present. Cinema is art, aesthetic expression, but also historical tale, creative industry, technology and connection. For Italy starting from these values is fundamental: we are a country open to the world, able to unite, and we want to continue to make our contribution, especially in a complex phase like the current one.
L’articolo The role of Italy in the United States, told by Ambassador Marco Peronaci proviene da IlNewyorkese.
