New Delhi: Embassy of Italy in New Delhi hosted a dignified celebration to mark Italy’s Armed Forces Day, honouring the courage, service, and sacrifice of Italian men and women in uniform. The event brought together senior Indian and Italian defence officials, diplomats, business leaders and members of the Italian community in India, reflecting the depth and warmth of Italy–India friendship and cooperation. The event was hosted by Defence Attache of Italy to India Captain (Navy) Armando Paolo Simi.
The evening began with a solemn tribute to the Italian Armed Forces, whose legacy of peacekeeping, humanitarian service, and international collaboration continues to be a source of pride. The venue was decorated in the colours of both nations — the Italian tricolour elegantly intertwined with India’s saffron, white, and green — symbolising shared values and mutual respect. Italian cuisine and fine wines complemented the formal proceedings, creating an atmosphere that blended ceremony with camaraderie.
In his address Ambassador of Italy Lorenzo Bardoli highlighted the growing strength of the Italy–India relationship, describing it as a partnership rooted in shared democratic ideals, innovation, and respect. He underlined that cooperation between the two nations has moved beyond traditional diplomacy into the realms of defence, maritime security, and technological innovation. Ambassador Bardoli stated that Defence cooperation is not merely strategic — it is a symbol of our commitment to global stability and mutual growth. He highlighted from recent Italy–India defence engagements, including naval exercises and strategic dialogues aimed at enhancing interoperability and technological exchange.
https://youtu.be/LX5T2TpOEtQGuests from both sides, including defence officials, diplomats, and cultural representatives, engaged in warm discussions about potential collaborations in education, technology, and research. The Ambassador concluded the event by thanking the Government of India, the Indian Armed Forces, and all attendees for their continued support and goodwill, reaffirming that Italy and India share a forward-looking partnership built on peace, cooperation, and respect.
On display were Italian civil and military aircrafts and choppers models, Italian watches, motorcycles and automobiles which were a matter of everyones curiosity.
National Unity and Armed Forces Day is an Italian national day since 1919 which commemorates the victory in World War I, a war event considered the completion of the process of unification of Italy. It is celebrated every 4 November, which is the anniversary of the armistice of Villa Giusti becoming effective in 1918 declaring Austria-Hungary's surrender.
The Italian President and Minister of Defence send to the Italian Armed Forces a message of greeting and gratitude in the name of the whole country.
