The Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani, spoke today at the closing of the Plenary Assembly of the CGIE – General Council of Italians Abroad.
The General Council of Italians Abroad is the advisory body to the Italian government and Parliament on major issues of interest to Italians abroad and meets at least once a year. Among its many functions, the CGIE aims at promoting and facilitating the improvement of the living conditions of Italian communities abroad and strengthening their connection with Italy, as well as ensuring the most effective protection of the rights of Italians abroad, facilitating the maintenance of their cultural and linguistic identity and promoting their economic and commercial initiatives. Composed of 63 members, 20 of whom are appointed by the government and 43 elected to represent Italian communities, the CGIE is chaired by the Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
The work of the CGIE was opened on 19 June by Undersecretary Giorgio Silli.
