FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Washington, D.C. – January 9, 2025) – The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is pleased to announce the Italian region of Lazio as its designated Region of Honor for 2025. This historic region, home to Rome, the capital of Italy, and steeped in profound significance, marks a momentous year as it coincides with both the Jubilee Year and NIAF’s 50th Anniversary.

“NIAF is thrilled to celebrate the extraordinary Lazio region during this landmark year,” said NIAF President Robert Allegrini. “From its unparalleled historical heritage to its vibrant modern essence, Lazio embodies the depth and dynamism of Italian excellence.”

“I am glad and honored that Lazio will be the 2025 NIAF Region of Honor. I am sure that this circumstance will help to boost our already flourishing relations with the United States, and that it will be useful to raise awareness on all that our Region has to offer in terms of beauty and heritage, but also in the field of high technology and innovation,” added President of the Region Lazio Francesco Rocca.

The Victor Emmanuel II National Monument, also known as the Vittoriano or
Altare della Patria, in Piazza Venezia in Rome, Italy.

The region offers an extraordinary tapestry of experiences that spans millennia of human civilization. Lazio stands as a testament to historical continuity, serving as the heartland of pivotal civilizations: the birthplace of the Etruscan civilization, the central stage of the Roman Republic, the epicenter of the Roman Empire, the core of the Papal States, a key territory of the Kingdom of Italy, and now a vibrant part of the Italian Republic.

From the rolling hills of the countryside to the architectural marvels of its urban centers, Lazio represents a microcosm of Italian cultural richness, blending natural beauty with centuries of human achievement and innovation.

The NIAF Board of Directors looks forward to its annual Mission to Italy trip to the region. During the visit, the Board will meet with regional government representatives and tour numerous cities, highlighting Lazio’s historical and contemporary significance.

The Ambassador Peter F. Secchia Voyage of Discovery program will send 48 exceptional Italian American collegiate students to explore Lazio, providing them a profound connection to their ancestral roots and the region’s illustrious legacy.

A delegation from Lazio will participate in NIAF’s New York Gala on April 10th and the Washington, D.C. Gala on October 18th, which will be held at the historic Washington Hilton Hotel and commemorate NIAF’s 50th Anniversary. The region will be showcased throughout the year on NIAF’s social media and in its tri-annual Ambassador magazine publication.

Lazio boasts a robust and diverse industrial landscape, with key sectors including:

• Agroindustry and agrifood
• Aerospace
• Automobile manufacturing
• Health and biotech
• Yacht and boat production
• Engineering
• Electronics
• Construction and building materials
• Textile production

The region is particularly distinguished by its production of household chemicals, pharmaceutical goods, hygiene products, and medical supplies. Moreover, Lazio plays a critical role in advanced technology, serving as a hub for research, development, and manufacturing of solid and liquid propellant motors for launch vehicles and tactical propulsion systems.

Lazio, with Rome as its capital, is home to world-renowned universities including American University of Rome, John Cabot University, LUISS Guido Carli University and Sapienza University of Rome. The 2025 Jubilee Year adds special significance to NIAF’s celebration, offering a unique opportunity to explore the profound spiritual and traditional dimensions of the area.

Major cities in Lazio include Latina, Frosinone, Viterbo, Ostia, Frascati and Rieti. The region boasts major companies across various sectors and continues to be a center of innovation and preservation.

With its extraordinary blend of ancient history and modern innovation, Lazio exemplifies the best of Italian lifestyle and traditions. NIAF looks forward to celebrating this iconic region throughout 2025. Stay connected with NIAF to learn more about Lazio.

###

CONTACT:

NIAF:
Gabriella Mileti
Director of Special Programs and PR
202-939-3116
gmileti@niaf.org

Barabino and Partners USA:
Marco Lastrico
Partner – CEO
212-308-8710
m.lastrico@barabinousa.com

About NIAF
The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is a non-profit organization based in the United States that promotes the Italian culture and heritage. Founded in 1975, NIAF has been a leading advocate for Italian Americans, preserving their legacy and promoting their contributions to the United States.