Prior to this meeting, Milei met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at the Palazzo Chigi, deepening the bilateral relationship between both countries and developing a joint work agenda.
"The close relationship between Argentina and Italy, as sister nations with very active geopolitical and economic ties, not only strengthens bilateral cooperation but also promotes prosperity and mutual development in an increasingly interdependent world."
Argentina: A Very Italian Country
During the 20th century, Argentina experienced a significant wave of Italian immigration, which contributed significantly to the country's demographic composition. Approximately between 1870 and 1920, around 2 million Italians arrived in Argentina. After World War II, there was a major migratory flow of Italians to Argentina. It is estimated that between 1946 and 1960, around 300,000 Italians emigrated to Argentina. This post-war period was a time of intense migration from Italy to various countries, including Argentina, as a result of the economic and social devastation Italy experienced after the conflict. Many Italians sought economic opportunities and a better quality of life in Argentina and other countries in the Americas.
This represented approximately 47.5% of all immigrants who arrived in the country during that period. In terms of descendants of Italians in Argentina, it is estimated that around 28% of the Argentine population has Italian ancestry. This percentage varies in different regions of the country, being higher in some areas, especially in urban areas and in certain provinces where Italian immigration was more concentrated. Descendants of Italians have had a significant influence on Argentine culture, gastronomy, and society.
Argentina and Italy: Two Brotherly Nations Reconnecting
These meetings mark a milestone in the history of both nations, symbolizing a renewed commitment to strengthening cooperation and mutual understanding in various fields, from politics to economics and culture.
President Milei, accompanied by a prominent official delegation, also held a meeting with Pope Francis in the Vatican, reinforcing the spiritual and humanitarian ties between Argentina and the Vatican.
These diplomatic encounters not only consolidate the ties between Argentina and Italy but also send a powerful message to the global migrant community, reminding them of the importance of maintaining and strengthening ties with their countries of origin.
In an increasingly interconnected world, these historic meetings serve as a reminder of the richness and diversity that migration brings to societies and the importance of building bridges of understanding and collaboration between nations.
The visit of the Argentine president to Italy represents a significant moment in the history of bilateral relations between both countries and a symbol of hope and unity for the migrant community worldwide