The Amerigo Vespucci, an iconic Italian Navy training ship, has docked in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as part of its global tour. Open to the public until January 30, the ship commemorates Italian exploration and encourages cultural exchange. Various events will accompany the visit, highlighting the ongoing friendship and cooperation between Italy and Saudi Arabia.
On Monday morning, the historic Italian Navy training ship, Amerigo Vespucci, docked at the Jeddah Yacht Club and Marina, where it will remain open for public visits until January 30. This visit marks the 33rd stage of its extensive two-year global tour, which commenced on July 1, 2023, from Genoa, Italy, encompassing five continents, 30 countries, and 35 ports before returning to the Mediterranean.
The vessel honors Amerigo Vespucci, an influential Italian explorer from the late 15th and early 16th centuries, who was among the first to recognize that the lands discovered by Christopher Columbus were not part of Asia, but a distinct continent later named America. The inaugural ceremony of Villaggio Italia took place during this event, featuring notable attendees such as Saudi Assistant Minister of Defense Talal bin Abdullah Al-Otaibi, Italian Minister of Defense Guido Crosetto, and a range of Italian officials.
Minister Crosetto highlighted the ship’s traditional design, stating, “This is not an easy ship because it did not rely on modern technology but relied on human skills.“ He also celebrated the growing bond between Saudi Arabia and Italy, emphasizing collaborative endeavors across several sectors, including politics, defense, culture, and science.
Welcoming the Amerigo Vespucci to Jeddah, Al-Otaibi expressed appreciation for this visit, which he identified as significant for promoting peace and cooperation. He noted the ship’s arrival reinforces the commitment of both nations to enhancing naval partnership and diplomatic ties through shared endeavors.
Ambassador Carlo Baldocci noted that the visit illustrates the lasting friendship between Italy and Saudi Arabia. He encouraged public engagement with the cultural initiatives associated with Villaggio Italia, which highlights Italian art, music, and history, available to the public.
Captain Giuseppe Lai of the Amerigo Vespucci shared the pride in reaching Jeddah for the first time, describing the journey as challenging yet enriching. He expressed excitement for cultural exchange and understanding through this global expedition, which is set to conclude on June 10.
The Jeddah leg of the world tour will also host the Villaggio Italia exhibition, showcasing Italy’s finest products and culture. A series of cultural activities, such as film screenings, a painting competition, and a concert by the Italian Air Force band, will take place during the stay, with onboard visits scheduled for specific times.
The Amerigo Vespucci is a renowned training ship of the Italian Navy, celebrated for its historical significance in maritime education and exploration. Named after the famous navigator who contributed to the understanding of the New World, the ship is symbolic of Italy’s naval heritage. Its current world tour aims to strengthen international relations through cultural exchange, particularly with Saudi Arabia, emphasizing friendship and cooperation in various sectors as both nations work towards deeper diplomatic ties.
The Amerigo Vespucci’s visit to Jeddah not only serves as a remarkable cultural exchange opportunity but also signifies the strengthening of relations between Italy and Saudi Arabia. Through various events and public access to the ship, both nations celebrate long-standing friendship and shared values. This tour aims to enhance understanding and promote collaboration across multiple fields, illustrating a commitment to fostering peace and cooperation globally.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
