The first edition of the Italy-Canada Conference 2024, held in Rome at the Embassy of Canada in Italy, ended on Tuesday 22 October. The event represented an important opportunity for companies, institutions and professionals to meet, with the aim of strengthening economic relations between Italy and Canada.
The conference was attended by high-level representatives, including H.E. Elissa Ann Golberg, Ambassador of Canada to Italy, and theHon. Giorgio Silli, Undersecretary for Foreign Affairs of the Italian Government, who helped outline the key points for the development of bilateral collaborations.
Italy-Canada conference: the topics covered
The focus of the event was on topical issues for the business world, such as technological innovation, energy transition and sustainable infrastructure development. During the discussions, a common interest emerged in promoting projects that can generate added value for both countries, fostering economic growth and responding to global challenges. The speakers highlighted the importance of seizing opportunities related toartificial intelligence and theInternet of Things, topics that are redefining business models and market dynamics.
Among the speakers, Paolo Quattrocchi, Sameena Qureshi and Stefano Casaregola brought their experiences and expertise, offering diverse perspectives on how companies can address current challenges and seize new market opportunities. Moderator Andréanne Passarelli led the discussions, stimulating dialogue between the participants and fostering constructive discussion.
Oggi ho avuto il piacere di partecipare con l’On. @GiorgioSilli , Sottosegretario di Stato @ItalyMFA à un événement organisé par la Chambre Canada-UE e la Chambre Canada en Italie à @CanadainItalia .
— Elissa CAN (@Elissa_Golberg) October 22, 2024
An event to foster synergies between 🇨🇦🤝🇮🇹 for a prosperous future. pic.twitter.com/OkWErneQsm
Undersecretary @GiorgioSilli at the “Italy-Canada Conference 2024” organized by @CanChamItaly and @CECanadaEurope.
— Italy MFA (@ItalyMFA_int) October 22, 2024
Canada is a strategic partner for Italy and our bilateral trade is increasing. Italian economic diplomacy is working to promote our excellence. pic.twitter.com/v56lFEadit
The role of institutions: support and collaboration
During the event, the fundamental role of institutions in facilitating collaborations between Italian and Canadian companies was emphasised. H.E. Elissa Ann Golberg highlighted the importance of continuing to strengthen economic and cultural ties between the two countries through initiatives that promote the exchange of know-how and innovation. Hon. Giorgio Silli reiterated the Italian government’s commitment to supporting companies that choose to invest in the Canadian market, stressing the importance of trade policies that favour internationalisation.
Future perspectives: collaborations and new events
The Canadian Chamber in Italy, organiser of the event together with the Canada-Europe Economic Chamber, announced that preparations are already underway for the next edition of the conference. The aim will be to broaden the scope, involving more sectors and promoting further joint initiatives between the two countries.
During the conference, the Chamber’s participation in major international events was also confirmed, including the next event in Barcelona on 30 October, on the occasion of the ‘Mediterranean-Canada Business Forum ’ organised by the Canadian Chamber in Italy and ASCAME, Brussels on 19 November, organised by the Canada-Europe Economic Chamber, and the B7 2025 in Canada , on the occasion of Canada’s presidency of the G7.
The Barcelona event will offer a new opportunity to consolidate relations and develop concrete projects, with a specific focus on digitalisation and sustainability issues. Furthermore, the presence of the Italian delegation of the Canadian Chamber in Italy at the B7 will represent an opportunity to bring the voice of Italian companies on an international stage, fostering interaction with the world’s leading economies.
Final considerations: an opportunity for business
TheItaly-Canada Conference 2024 represented a concrete opportunity for companies and professionals to explore new business possibilities and consolidate existing relationships. Discussions paved the way for potential joint projects, offering participants tools and ideas to face the challenges of the future. The perspectives that emerged during the event suggest that, through active collaboration and institutional support, economic relations between Italy and Canada can evolve further, bringing concrete benefits to businesses in both countries.
The Canadian Chamber in Italy invites businesses and professionals to continue to follow its initiatives and explore the opportunities for collaboration offered. For more information, you can visit the official website www.canadianchamber.it.
