Italian envoy sees more trade, tourism with Philippines

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines—Italian Ambassador to the Philippines Luca Fornari on Thursday said he was exploring areas of trade between his country and Negros Occidental, as well as the tourism potential of the province.

The thrust of Negros Occidental toward the production of organic food will be a boost to its tourism industry and a potential for trade, Fornari told the Inquirer.

“Food free of chemicals is something that Europeans will go for,” he said.

Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Marañon last night hosted a dinner for Fornari and his wife, Silvana, who are on a four-day visit to Negros Occidental.

The governor said he hoped the ambassador’s visit would lead to trade opportunities between Negros Occidental and Italy and raise awareness on the province’s tourism potentials.

The ambassador and his wife are set to visit Sagay, Silay, Bago and San Carlos cities, the Mambukal Resort in Murcia and the Negros Museum. He would also meet with officials of the Association of Negros Producers.

The ambassador said he saw a lot of potential for increased business between Negros Occidental and his country, taking note of the organic thrust of the province.

“We will see what we can do together. I hope our relationship becomes stronger,” he said.

Fornari said he was impressed with the Bacolod-Silay Airport. He said this would be a plus for the province’s tourism industry.