Chargé d’Affaires Shawn Crowley celebrates Independence Day 2023 at Villa Taverna
June 26, 2023
Villa Taverna, Rome
[As Prepared for Delivery]Minister Tajani, members of the government, fellow diplomats, distinguished guests, good evening Buonasera. Welcome to the US Embassy Celebrations of the 247th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence of the United States of America!
As a personal title, I expressed my sincere belief when addressing her and have supported myself and my staff under my mandate they signed a year earlier. Tuttavia, my Italian mother must surprise me; perćho continuerò in inglese.
First, I would like to take a moment to thank the many donors whose contributions made tonight’s celebration possible, as well as the Embassy team and staff here at Villa Taverna. We would not be here without your generosity and support. We are aware of the invaluable role that American and Italian business communities play in strengthening ties between our countries. Together, our efforts create good jobs by enabling sustainable and inclusive economic growth. We look forward to continuing to work with you in the future.
This is a very special day for us and we’re glad you’re here to share it with us. You may have noticed the exhibit in the garden commemorating President John F. Kennedy’s visit 60 years ago. During his stay in Italy, he said (quote): “Today, Italy and the United States are more united than ever as partners in the defense of liberty.” Thanks to the efforts of the people gathered here tonight, I believe that statement is even truer today than 1963.
In fact, US-Italy relations have never been stronger. It is based on the foundation of our democratic systems, our shared values and the personal ties between the Italian and American people. Together we are more prosperous and safer.
While we rightly celebrate this partnership and these values, we recognize that the people of Ukraine are not too far away on the battlefield fighting for their lives, freedom and independence. Foreign Minister Blinken consults frequently with world leaders on the crisis, including Minister Tajani and other G7 foreign ministers this weekend. As the minister said when he received the minister in Washington just two weeks ago, the United States and Italy will continue to support efforts to secure a just and lasting peace in Ukraine in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter. The world recognizes and appreciates Italy’s leadership in this effort.
President Biden said Putin hoped his war would undermine the Transatlantic Alliance. It has not. In fact, our unity and resolve have never been stronger. Instead, we saw Foreign Secretary Blinken, when asked about this weekend’s events, say that real cracks were appearing in Russia.
We value Italy’s leading role in other areas as well. We look forward to Italy’s G7 Presidency next year and look forward to spending next summer with many of you at the Heads of State and Government Summit in Puglia. Together we have important work to do to combat climate change, secure supply chains, prevent future pandemics and increase global prosperity. To continue to ensure our security and prosperity, we must deepen cooperation to make our economies more resilient and less dependent on strategic competitors that do not meet international standards.
I am proud to serve in Italy during this challenging and historic time. I am confident that our relationship will continue to grow for the benefit of people on both sides of the Atlantic.
Finally, I would like to welcome our guest of honour. We are honored to have the Vice-President of the Council of Ministers and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Antonio Tajani, with us tonight as the representative of the Italian Government. He is a staunch defender of Italy’s interests, a good friend and a steadfast partner, both in the United States and throughout Europe. Please join me in welcoming Minister Tajani to the podium.
