Press Release by the Permanent Mission of Italy to the United Nations in New York
New York, 26 June 2026
On 25 June, Italy’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, Giorgio Marrapodi, officially launched the UNIT& initiative, a series of events aimed at showcasing Italy at the United Nations through its areas of excellence while highlighting the country’s commitment to international cooperation on peace, sustainable development and global governance.
The inaugural UNIT& event took place at the Residence of the Permanent Representative with the presentation of Bread and Cannons, the new book by journalist and essayist Federico Rampini. The book explores the evolving global geopolitical and economic landscape, including its implications for the work of the United Nations and the multilateral system.
The event, held in Italian and organized in cooperation with the Italian Cultural Institute in New York, directed by Claudio Pagliara, was attended by numerous ambassadors from UN Member States and senior UN officials. Participants engaged in a lively discussion moderated by journalist Valeria Robecco, President of the United Nations Correspondents Association (UNCA).
“Through UNIT&, we aim to showcase the wealth of initiatives, expertise and distinguished individuals that exemplify Italy’s contribution to the United Nations, while exploring the further opportunities arising from our country’s active engagement within the UN system,” Ambassador Marrapodi said. He added: “In line with the strategy set out by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani, from the very first event we have involved Italian-speaking ambassadors and senior UN officials, with the aim of fostering, here at the United Nations in New York, a community that can promote the Italian language, culture and identity.”
In this context, Ambassador Marrapodi announced that the Permanent Mission of Italy will organize the first Italian Language Community Day at the United Nations at the end of October, in sync with the Week of the Italian Language in the World.
The UNIT& series will continue over the coming months with the participation of companies, experts and representatives of civil society, encouraging an active dialogue with the UN membership, as well as with UN agencies and offices.
