ITALY AND AUSTRALIA BET ON A STRONGER ECONOMIC FUTURE

ROME – Political leaders, diplomats, investors and industry executives gathered in Rome this week for a high-level discussion focused on strengthening economic relations between Italy and Australia, highlighting the growing strategic importance of cooperation between the two nations and the opportunities that could emerge from a future European Union–Australia Free Trade Agreement.

The event was hosted by Australian Ambassador to Italy H.E. Julianne Cowley in partnership with the Australia Italy Business Association (AIBA) and brought together representatives from government, business and the investment community to explore new avenues for bilateral growth.

Among the distinguished guests was H.E. Angus Campbell AO, Australia’s Ambassador to the European Union, Belgium, Luxembourg and NATO, while keynote addresses were delivered by Italy’s Minister for Enterprises and Made in Italy Adolfo Urso and leading representatives from the private sector.

Speaking during the event, Ambassador Cowley highlighted the enormous potential of closer economic cooperation between Australia, Italy and the European Union.

“This timely dialogue underscored the massive potential for deeper commercial and strategic engagement between our nations,” she said, noting that Australian and European businesses are increasingly looking for opportunities to collaborate in emerging industries and sustainable growth sectors.

Italian Senator Francesco Giacobbe described the gathering as an important platform for dialogue, stressing the need to transform diplomatic goodwill into tangible economic outcomes.

“The time has come to consolidate relationships, build new partnerships and transform economic opportunities into concrete results for businesses, workers and local communities,” Giacobbe said.

AIBA President Taylee Lewis was recognised for bringing together government and industry leaders to discuss the future direction of the Australia–Italy economic partnership, while business representatives offered insights into some of the most promising sectors for future cooperation.

Among them, Stefano Fierro, Country Manager of Goodman Italy, outlined the importance of digital infrastructure and data centre investment, while Giuseppe Artizzu, CEO of NHOA Energy, and Sara Edmonson, Head of Global Advocacy at Fortescue, discussed opportunities in energy storage, grid modernisation and low-carbon generation.

Riccardo Dutto, Global Head of Infrastructure and Real Estate at Intesa Sanpaolo, provided perspectives on capital formation and investment platforms capable of supporting long-term growth and innovation.

Also contributing to the discussion was Hon. Nicola Carè, who emphasised the role of trade, innovation and investment in strengthening the relationship between the two countries.

“The Italian community in Australia continues to play a vital role in building bridges between our nations,” Carè said. “By encouraging cooperation in strategic industries, innovation and investment, we can create opportunities that will benefit future generations on both sides of the globe.”

A central focus of the event was the proposed European Union–Australia Free Trade Agreement, which many participants believe could become a transformative economic framework for both regions.

Supporters argue that the agreement would facilitate trade, improve supply chains, encourage investment and increase the mobility of skills, expertise and capital between Australia and Europe.

Minister Adolfo Urso described the relationship between Italy and Australia as one built on shared values and complementary economic strengths.

“The ties between Italy and Australia are historic and deep,” Urso said. “Today this relationship can become even more important because our countries share the same values and a common vision for economic growth.”

Urso welcomed progress towards the EU–Australia Free Trade Agreement, arguing that the deal could unlock significant opportunities across multiple sectors.

“Australia brings extraordinary mineral resources and world-class extraction expertise. Italy contributes innovation, advanced technology, pharmaceuticals, precision engineering, refining capabilities and recycling technologies,” he said.

The minister also noted that Australian companies are already investing heavily in Italy, particularly in renewable energy and green technologies, and confirmed that the Italian Government is prepared to support future projects through streamlined procedures and investment facilitation measures.

“We are convinced that there is still enormous room for collaboration and that the coming years can mark a new chapter in the partnership between Italy and Australia,” Urso added.

The discussions concluded with a shared commitment to deepen economic, institutional and commercial ties between the two countries.

As negotiations continue on the EU–Australia Free Trade Agreement, participants agreed that the foundations for a stronger partnership are already firmly in place. The challenge now is to transform potential into practical results, creating jobs, attracting investment and generating long-term prosperity for both nations.

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