For Italian Republic Day 2026, the Consulate General of Italy in Chongqing organized two receptions: on June 1 in Chongqing and on June 5 in Chengdu, with over 600 guests from the Italian community, local authorities, business, media, and culture. The institutional guests included Zhao Shiqing, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Chongqing People’s Assembly and a member of the Party leadership, and He Yanzheng, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Sichuan Provincial People’s Assembly.
The events were accompanied by musical performances: the Trio Hermes in Chongqing, and Professor Chen Yao and Professor Chen Shan in Chengdu. The trailer for the series Vivitalia Sichuan, produced with Sichuan TV, was also presented in Chengdu.
In his speech, Consul General Fabio Schina recalled the significance of the 80th anniversary of the Republic and the major initiatives planned for 2026 in Southwest China, highlighting the growth of bilateral investment and people-to-people exchanges, supported by the promotion of the Italy’s brand, direct air connections, and the visa-free travel policy for Italian citizens.
During the reception in Chengdu, Massimo Bagnasco, Founder and CEO of China Europe Carbon Neutral Technology, was awarded the honour of Officer of the Order of the Star of Italy.