Event honored 70th anniversary of Italy’s UN admission and NIAF’s 50th founding anniversary

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NEW YORK CITY, NY (July 25, 2025) – The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) and the Permanent Mission of Italy to the United Nations hosted an inspiring reception at UN Headquarters on the evening of July 22nd, celebrating two significant milestones: the 70th anniversary of Italy’s admission to the United Nations and the 50th anniversary of NIAF’s founding.

A bird’s eye view of the famous Sputnik Lounge at the UN.

The celebration, held at the prestigious Sputnik Lounge within the Glass Palace, brought together distinguished diplomats, dignitaries, Italian American community leaders, and institutional representatives for what NIAF President and CEO Robert Allegrini described as a “happy and symbolic confluence” of anniversaries. The event highlighted Italy’s return to the international scene in 1955 as a force for peace and cooperation, and NIAF’s founding twenty years later, inspired by that model to strengthen cultural and institutional ties between the United States and Italy.

NIAF Chairman John Calvelli and NIAF President and CEO Robert Allegrini were joined by esteemed guests including Ambassador Maurizio Massari, Permanent Representative of Italy to the United Nations; Senator Claudio Barbaro, Italy’s Under-Secretary of State for the Environment and Energy Security; Ambassador Bob Rae, President of the United Nations Economic and Social Council and Permanent Representative of Canada to the UN; and Minister Counsellor Jonathan Shrier, Acting Representative of the United States to the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.

The evening featured reflections on Italy’s seven decades of leadership within the United Nations, including its vital contributions to international peacekeeping missions, humanitarian efforts, and food security initiatives through its support of UN bodies such as the FAO and the WFP.

“This momentous occasion serves as a powerful reminder of the deep and enduring bonds between Italy, the United Nations, and the Italian American community,” said Calvelli. “It was an honor to mark these anniversaries with our partners at the UN and with friends and allies from around the world.”

Allegrini added, “NIAF is proud to have spent the last 50 years promoting Italian heritage and strengthening the transatlantic relationship between Italy and the United States. We look forward to the next 50 years with continued purpose and pride.”

The event underscored Italy’s active and valued contributions to international diplomacy and the vital cultural and civic role of Italian Americans across the United States.  The celebration of NIAF’s 50th anniversary will culminate on October 18 in Washington, D.C., with the Golden Anniversary Gala.

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CONTACT:
NIAF:
Gabriella Mileti
Director of Special Programs and PR
202-939-3116
gmileti@niaf.org

Barabino and Partners USA:
Marco Lastrico
Partner – CEO
212-308-8710
m.lastrico@barabinousa.com

About NIAF

The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is a non-profit organization based in the United States that promotes the Italian culture and heritage. Founded in 1975, NIAF has been a leading advocate for Italian Americans, preserving their legacy and promoting their contributions to the United States.