Embassy of India
Rome
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Press Release on the occasion of the 74th Republic Day of India, 26 January 2023
The 74th Republic Day of India was celebrated on 26th January 2023 in Rome. This year also marks the 75th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Italy.
2. The celebration of 74th Republic Day of India commenced in the morning with an event held with full zeal and patriotic fervour in the multi-purpose hall of the Embassy of India, Rome. The celebration was attended by over 100 people from all walks of life, among them were Embassy officials, family members, representatives of the Indian community including students, priests and friends of India.
3. The event commenced at 0930 hrs with the unfurling of the National Flag by Ambassador Dr. Neena Malhotra, followed by the singing of the National Anthem. Thereafter, in the Hall of the Chancery, the Ambassador read out excerpts from the address of Hon’ble President of India to the nation on the eve of the Republic Day and shared her felicitation and remarks with the audience. A short cultural performance was also organized with the singing of patriotic song by student on instrument and recitation of poem. Light refreshments were also served at the end of the programme.
4. In the evening, a gala reception was organized by the Embassy from 1900 hrs to 2100 at Hotel St. Regis. Mr. Matteo Salvini, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure and Transport graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Ms. Maria Tripodi, Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, was the Guest of Honour. President of the Indo-Italian Parliamentary Friendship Group Senator Giulio Terzi also attended the event along with Vice President of the Senate Maurizio Gasparri and other senators. The programme began with the traditional lighting of the lamp by the eminent guests, playing of National Anthems of India and Italy, followed by welcome speeches by the Ambassador and by the Chief Guest and the Guest of Honor.
5. A cultural programme incorporating classical, folk and Bollywood dances enthralled the audience. Dinner was served at the end of the programme. Around 250 guests, including senators, Ambassadors, officials of the Italian government, members of the diplomatic and diplomatic corps, representatives of Rome-based UN organizations, Italian friends of India and academicians as well as members of the Indian community from Rome and nearby areas attended the function. The occasion was also utilised to highlight International Year of Millet (IYM) 2023 and Indian millet products supplied by APEDA were also displayed and distributed among the dignitaries.
6. Photos of the event are available here and here.
Rome
26.01.2023
