The recent citizenship reform decree "has drawn significant interest and sparked discussion within Italian communities." For this reason, "the conversation that will take place within your Council will certainly be valuable and worth close attention, as it may lead to thoughtful evaluation, and perhaps even some reconsideration, of the issues that have emerged."

This is what President Sergio Mattarella said to the members of the General Council of Italians Abroad (CGIE), whom he welcomed this afternoon at the Quirinal Palace. Before addressing the topic of citizenship, Mattarella listened to remarks by Maria Chiara Prodi, CGIE’s Secretary General. He then welcomed all the Council members, expressing “deep appreciation for the work you do in support of our communities around the world.”

The President emphasized that the Council members’ efforts represent a “daily commitment” that “strengthens and reflects the connection between Italy and the millions of Italians living beyond our national borders.” “With great merit, you help give them a voice,” he added. “A vast population of Italians abroad that forms an essential part of our country’s social fabric.”

Mattarella highlighted the participation of Italians abroad in national elections, calling it “an expression of active citizenship” that contributes to “the vitality of our democratic society.”
He described Comites and CGIE as institutions that “reinforce the idea of a free democracy—open to all citizens, no matter where in the world they’ve chosen to live.”

Later in his remarks, the President touched on the history of Italian migration, calling it “a fundamental part of our national identity.”
“From the great waves of migration following Italy’s unification, to the many departures after World War II,” he said, “generations of Italians sought better futures outside of our borders. They played a crucial role in Italy’s postwar recovery and growth, including through the significant remittances they sent home.”

He praised those Italians abroad who “helped forge strong and valuable ties between Italy and their host countries—ties built on respect and admiration for what they’ve achieved.”

Italian communities, Mattarella said, “have managed to bring Italy closer to people across the globe. Even in the most remote places, they’ve served as true ambassadors of Italian language and culture.”
This, he noted, is a meaningful element of Italy’s international presence—one that upholds values such as dialogue, hard work, hospitality, and peace.

He also paid special tribute to Italian women migrants, calling them “guardians of language, culture, and tradition,” who have kept their roots alive even in challenging environments.
“Teachers, scientists, entrepreneurs, cultural leaders—they’ve formed the backbone of our communities abroad, contributing significantly to their cohesion and integration in their new homes,” Mattarella said as he began wrapping up his remarks.

Before closing, he spoke briefly about young people and today’s patterns of mobility:
“This new mobility reflects a global mindset, a drive toward unity born from the awareness of a shared human destiny,” he said.
“For younger generations, time abroad is often a meaningful chapter in a personal journey of growth—one that may lead to returning home. And unlike in the past, today we see a back-and-forth dynamic, where departure and return feed into each other like communicating vessels, creating mutual enrichment. This also presents a continuing challenge for Italy—to remain an attractive place to come back to.”

“In this shared journey—built on hard work and idealism—the General Council of Italians Abroad, along with each one of you, plays a vital role,” the President concluded.
“You help give voice to the rich diversity of our fellow Italians around the world and their unique perspectives.”
He then wished the CGIE members a successful Plenary Assembly, continuing through Friday, and thanked them for “the dedication you show to communities that are a living part of what makes Italy whole.”