On the picture, H.E. Andrea Perugini, Ambassador of Italy to the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
In celebration of La Festa della Repubblica, The Italian Republic Day, the Ambassador of Italy, H.E. Andrea Perugini and spouse, Mrs. Mariska Perugini-Visser, organised a memorable reception at the distinctive Nieuwe Kerk, in The Hague, on Wednesday, 31 May. La Festa della Repubblica, commemorates the historic June 2, 1946 date, when Italians voted to abolish the Monarchy and a Republic was born.
Ambassador Perugini and Mariska Perugini-Visser, together with Italian diplomats from their Embassy, formed a reception line to welcome over two hundred and fifty special guests. The Ambassador’s invitees included representatives from the Dutch government, the private sector, heads of mission and many other members of the diplomatic corps who are serving with numerous embassies in the city.
Distinguished guests from the International Organisations, as well as guests from the economic, cultural and academic communities, judges, business people, politicians, a representative of the Roman Catholic Church and other friends of Italy were also invited to celebrate Festa della Repubblica with the Ambassador and his staff.
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Guests were warmly welcomed with traditional Italian hospitality. Accompanying fare was offered at once, making the evening event an immediate success. Upon entry, guests were invited to sample an array of Italian dishes in the reception area of the historic venue. The wide selection featured many Italian dishes that are known and enjoyed by connaisseurs the world over.
Familiar preparations such as Italian risotto and frittata were featured, together with Italian wines and liqueurs. Both food and beverage selections were enjoyed by all who were present. At once, guests began mingling with one another and light conversations ensued.
Following the reception, guests were invited into the central hall of the magnificent Nieuwe Kerk , which now serves as venue for concerts and other cultural events throughout the year. The Nieuwe Kerk, located just across from the modern City Hall of the Hague, was constructed in 1649 and is one of the oldest landmark buildings in the city’s historic Haagse Binnenstad (city center).
In his remarks, H.E. Mr. Andrea Perugini, Ambassador of Italy, acknowledged, with pleasure, the historic and recent rapid developments of Italian-Dutch relations; emphasizing his dedication to further strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.
He said, “This year, in addition to celebrating the excellent bilateral relations between the Netherlands and Italy and the fruitful contribution that Italy brings to the Courts, Tribunals and Organizations in the City of Peace and Justice, the Italian National Day in The Netherlands is especially dedicated to the upcoming State visit to Italy by their Majesties the King and Queen of The Netherlands from June 20 to June 23.An extensive visit, with a rich schedule of events which includes in addition to Rome, visits to Palermo and Milano.
In Milano, together with over 100 Dutch business representatives in 4 key sectors ( water management, Agrofood, preservation of Cultural Heritage and fashion and design). ”
Ambassador Perugini thanked the sponsors: Bellavista Franciacorta and Leone de Castris for the excellent wines they provided and Ferrero for the refined chocolates.
Following his speech, he introduced Daklen Difato, a 17 year old musical prodigy, who had travelled from Italy to The Hague, with his father, for the special occasion. Upon taking the stage, the talented young man surprised everyone with his “rock star look.” Upon commencing to play a complete classical piano recital from memory, the room fell silent. Difato, demonstrated his complete mastery of the instrument to all who were present and he played with a suppleness and interpretive force that few professional pianists are ever able to attain. For his performance, the gifted Italian pianist, played Chopin and others masters, in an extraordinary concert that the Ambassador’s guests will always favorably remember.
Congratulations to the Italian embassy team for one of the best ever Festa della Repubblica in the Netherlands.
