Alfano to the Federaton of the Giulian-Dalmatian exhiles: preserving memory and looking forward to the future are key for Italy and for stronger bilateral relations with Slovenia and Croatia

“Federesuli is a group of associations of extraordinary significance for the positive role they carry out at national and international level, spreading awareness on the tragedy of the Giulian-Dalmatian exodus. At the same time, thanks to its constructive approach, the Federation plays a key role in strengthening our bilateral relations with Slovenia and Croatia,” said the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Angelino Alfano, when receiving at the Farnesina a delegation of the Federation of Exiles from Istria, Rijeka and Dalmatia, led by its president, Antonio Ballarin.
“I am convinced that the relations of the Giulian-Dalmatian associations with the countries of origin can be further strengthened by promoting economic growth and enhancing the multicultural nature of the area, in line with our common belonging to the European Union,” Alfano continued and then said to President Ballarin: “Our Embassies in Ljubiana and Zagreb are constantly kept informed on the issues that concern the Exiles.”
The Minister of Foreign Affairs expressed his satisfaction for the recent meeting that the Government and Exile representatives held at Palazzo Chigi. As regards the sums Slovenia and Croatia owe Italy according to the 1983 Rome Treaty, he said: “They should all be allocated to initiatives of interest to the Exiles, including the establishment of an ad-hoc foundation, in compliance with the spirit of the Treaty.”