Today, Governor Ron DeSantis met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome to discuss strengthening the relationship between Italy and Florida. The two regions share many commonalities, including cultural bonds and economic interests.
Governor DeSantis expressed optimism about the meeting, stating, “It was great to discuss relations between Florida and Italy with the Prime Minister today in Rome. We hope that Florida and Italy’s relationship continues to grow, and we welcome greater investment from Italian companies in our state.” He also thanked Prime Minister Meloni for hosting the trade delegation, highlighting her efforts to advance her country's interests.
This meeting is part of a broader international trade and business development mission led by Governor DeSantis. The mission includes visits to several Italian cities such as Viareggio, Florence, Turin, and Milan. Accompanying him are 85 representatives from various Florida industries like higher education, transportation and logistics, aerospace and aviation, military and defense, hospitals, life sciences, and manufacturing.
The trade mission seeks to create economic opportunities for Florida. Italy ranks among Florida’s top twenty international trade partners with an annual bilateral trade volume of $4.4 billion.