In his Singapore National Day message, H.E. Dante Brandi reflects on more than six decades of Italy–Singapore friendship, celebrating a relationship driven by innovation, high-level engagement and expanding collaboration across strategic sectors.
Strong bilateral relationships are defined not only by their longevity but also by their ability to evolve with changing times. Over more than six decades, Italy and Singapore have transformed their diplomatic ties into a comprehensive partnership spanning innovation, scientific research, defence, trade, education and cultural exchange. As part of IN Diplomacy’s special feature commemorating Singapore’s 61st National Day, we are honoured to present a message from H.E. Dante Brandi, Ambassador of Italy to Singapore. Reflecting on the momentum generated since the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations, Ambassador Brandi highlights the growing strategic cooperation between the two countries and reaffirms Italy’s commitment to building an even stronger partnership for the future.
Congratulatory message from H.E. Dante Brandi, Ambassador of Italy to Singapore, on the occasion of Singapore’s 61st National Day
“The relationship between Italy and Singapore has continued to grow in strength and substance over more than six decades. Built on mutual trust, openness and a shared commitment to international cooperation, it has evolved into a broad and dynamic partnership that extends well beyond the traditional sphere of diplomacy. Today, it provides a strong foundation for further expanding cooperation across an increasingly broad range of fields.
The celebration of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations last year marked an important milestone in our shared history while opening a new chapter in bilateral relations. At their meeting on the margins of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg last November, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong agreed to develop a Joint Strategic Action Plan to guide bilateral cooperation in the years ahead. Since then, Italy and Singapore have translated that shared commitment into concrete action by intensifying high-level dialogue across a broad range of strategic areas. Deputy Minister Edoardo Rixi’s visit, the first Italy–Singapore Political Consultations between Ambassador Riccardo Guariglia, Secretary General of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Permanent Secretary Albert Chua, and Minister of Defence Guido Crosetto’s participation in the Shangri-La Dialogue have all given tangible expression to this shared vision, strengthening cooperation in connectivity, political dialogue, defence and regional security.
Scientific and technological cooperation is among the strongest pillars of this evolving relationship. Through the Executive Programme on Scientific and Technological Cooperation, Italy and Singapore are expanding collaboration in strategic fields including artificial intelligence, robotics, advanced manufacturing, life sciences and space technologies. These initiatives reflect our shared conviction that research, innovation and talent are indispensable to sustainable growth, industrial competitiveness and long-term prosperity.
The vitality of our relationship is equally reflected in the close links between our economies, institutions and communities. Trade, investment and business partnerships continue to strengthen the economic dimension of our relationship, while universities and research centres are deepening academic cooperation through the exchange of knowledge, expertise and talent. Cultural initiatives further enrich the relationship between our two countries by fostering dialogue, creativity and lasting people-to-people connections. Taken together, these exchanges give greater depth and resilience to our relationship, ensuring that it is sustained not only by close institutional engagement but also by the enduring bonds between businesses, researchers, students, artists and the wider communities of Italy and Singapore.
On the occasion of Singapore’s 61st National Day, I extend my warmest congratulations to the Government and the people of Singapore, together with my sincere wishes for continued peace, prosperity and success. May the friendship between our two countries continue to flourish for the benefit of our peoples and of future generations.
Happy National Day, Singapore.”
Source: H.E. Dante Brandi
