With a solemn flag-raising ceremony at the Altar of the Fatherland and a tribute to the Unknown Soldier, the 78th anniversary of the Italian Republic began this morning in Rome.
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The President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, laid a laurel wreath in the presence of the highest officials of the State, including Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the presidents of the Senate and the Chamber Ignazio La Russa and Lorenzo Fontana, and the Minister of Defense Guido Crosetto.
The ceremony was accompanied by the flight of the Frecce Tricolori, which flew over Piazza Venezia, offering an exciting spectacle. Their passage preceded the traditional parade at the Imperial Forums, where the national anthem was performed by Claudio Baglioni, accompanied by the inter-forces band of the Defense.
A message of unity and commitment
In front of the presidential tribune, packed with civil and military authorities, this year's theme – “In defense of the Republic, at the service of the country” – resonated forcefully. A message of unity and commitment to the future of Italy, also expressed by President Mattarella in his speech.
The parade, which involved military and civilian personnel, armed and unarmed forces, military bands and fanfares, represented a moment of great participation and sharing. Despite the pouring rain, thousands of people attended the celebrations, testifying to the deep bond that unites Italians to their Republic.
The Frecce Tricolori close the celebrations
As per tradition, the Frecce Tricolori flew over the Imperial Forums, closing with a touch of elegance and panache the celebrations of the 78th anniversary of the Italian Republic. An edition rich in meaning and emotion, which renewed the sense of belonging and national cohesion.
Mattarella: 'Our Constitution is wise and far-sighted'. The message to the Chief of Defence Staff
“Celebrating the seventy-eight years since the birth of the Italian Republic recalls the values of our identity and of a farsighted and wise Constitution – writes the President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, in a message to the Chief of Defense Staff, Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone on the occasion of June 2 -, the fruit of the extraordinary rebirth that began with the struggle for Liberation. Independence and freedom are conquests that must be defended every day, in communion of intent and with the ability to cooperate for the common good”.
“The Fathers of the Fatherland were aware of the risks and limits of closing themselves off within national spheres and dreamed of an Italy open to Europe, close to the peoples who were fighting for their freedoms everywhere in the world.“, the message from Mattarella.
“Our contribution – and that of the Armed Forces – to the cause of international peace and stability is more precious than ever in today's situation characterized by devastation and aggression against civilian populations in Europe and the Middle East”, added President Mattarella in the message.
“The Republic is grateful to the women and men of the Armed Forces for the tasks carried out in the demanding theatres of operation where they are called to operate, within the framework of the missions of the United Nations, those resulting from solidarity between the countries of the Atlantic Alliance, and the decisions to which we contributed at the level of the European Union.
The guarantee of civil coexistence, development and the pursuit of international justice know they can count on the security framework offered by the Armed Forces.
2 In remembering those who lost their lives defending the values of our community, I turn my respectful thoughts to the fallen who contributed to making Italy a united country and a free and democratic nation. On this day of celebration, may the Italian people extend their appreciation for the service they have performed and their warmest wishes to all members of the Armed Forces”.
Article published on 2 June 2024 - 17:43
