“Seventy-five years of bilateral diplomatic relations represent a momentous anniversary in the lives of two countries and two nations and certainly deserve to be celebrated in a memorable way,” he said during the media launch of the book “Philippines-Italy: Rising Together” to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Philippines – Italy ties.
“We need to strengthen our ties better by building initiatives that empower our people to succeed and make sure that they are rooted in our goal of rising together,” the ambassador added.
Clemente furthered that these activities should focus on cultural, economic, and diplomatic advancements.
The Italian Embassy is likewise eyeing scholarship opportunities for Filipino students and rolling out a series of events on education, performing arts, and language that will target the marginalized communities in Metro Manila.
Clemente also hailed the presence of Filipino workers in Italy.
“The presence of Filipino workers [and] Filipino families there is crucial for our economy and for our social fabric,” he said.
Philippines-Italy: Rising Together
The book, which contains 80 stories from Filipino and Italian writers, artists, and diplomats, revolves around the multifaceted partnership between the two countries.
It features stories about Filipino and Italian cuisine, architecture, science, business, religion, sport, and childcare.
Clemente noted that it took two years and a ton of hard work for the book to be completed.
“This is a very special object; it’s called a book. Our people, our children, our friends, unfortunately, little by little, are less and less familiar of this object called book,” he said.
“Promote reading, write feature stories, start a debate,” he added.
The book is not for sale and was only printed in limited copies, but its electronic copy can be accessed for free through the embassy’s website.