Strengthening Indo-Italian Synergies: ICCI & CGI Milan Host High-Level Workshop in Genoa on Strategic Partnership

May 21, 2025
Uncategorized

Genoa, May 20, 2025 – The Indian Chamber of Commerce in Italy (ICCI), in close collaboration with the Consulate General of India in Milan, successfully organized a landmark event titled “India as a Strategic Partner for Italy” at the historic Palazzo San Giorgio in Genoa. The workshop marked a significant milestone in advancing Indo-Italian economic and institutional collaboration, particularly in the strategic sectors of logistics, port infrastructure, and emerging technologies.

Held with the vital support of the Port System Authority of the Western Ligurian Sea and the Clickutility Team Shipping Cluster, the event highlighted the growing importance of Genoa and the Liguria Region as key hubs in strengthening trade and investment ties between India and Italy.

Highlighting the Strategic Axis: Genoa–India

The workshop aimed to position Liguria as a key hub in the Indo-Italian trade corridor, focusing on sectors where the two nations can benefit from mutual cooperation: logistics and maritime transport, smart infrastructure, information technology, and sustainable port development.

This exclusive, high-level initiative brought together a distinguished group of institutional representatives, business leaders, port officials, and strategic stakeholders, creating a forum for direct dialogue and the exploration of practical opportunities for collaboration.

Institutional Welcome

The event began with opening remarks from:

  • Admiral Massimo Seno, Special Commissioner, Port System Authority of the Western Ligurian Sea

In his speech, he highlighted Genoa’s long-standing maritime tradition and its modern role as a global logistics hub capable of fostering international economic partnerships—especially with fast-growing economies such as India.

Panel 1: India 360° – Economy, Culture, and Opportunities

Featuring:

  • Lavanya Kumar, Consul General of India in Milan
  • Luciano Pettoello Mantovani, Secretary General, Indian Chamber of Commerce in Italy (ICCI)

This opening panel provided a comprehensive overview of India’s current economic trajectory, cultural vitality, and international standing. The speakers highlighted the opportunities India offers to Italian businesses, ranging from large-scale infrastructure projects and manufacturing growth to technological innovation, green energy, and cultural diplomacy.

Ms. Kumar highlighted India’s stable macroeconomic fundamentals, reform agenda, and openness to foreign investment, while Mr. Mantovani outlined ICCI’s ongoing efforts to serve as a bridge between the two nations and to support Italian companies entering the Indian market.

Panel 2: Liguria Meets India – Opportunities for the Region

Panelists included:

  • Stefano Messina – Board Member, Genoa Chamber of Commerce & Executive Vice President, Ignazio Messina & C.
  • Giuliana Bottino – Head of the Genoa Business Unit, City of Genoa
  • Carlo Golda – President, Liguria International
  • Giampaolo Botta – General Manager, Spediporto
  • Roberto Demarchi – Vice President, Assagenti
  • Alessandro Ferrari – Managing Director, ASSITERMINAL
  • Federica Montaresi – Special Commissioner, Eastern Ligurian Port Authority
  • Marco Sanguineri – Director of Planning and Development, Port System Authority of the Western Ligurian Sea

This in-depth roundtable highlighted Liguria’s strong capabilities in trade facilitation, port operations, and international business development. The discussion focused on aligning the region’s strengths with India’s growing demand for advanced logistics infrastructure, maritime partnerships, and smart trade solutions.

The discussions also touched on investment promotion, multimodal connectivity, and the need to develop joint innovation ecosystems, particularly in port digitization and green shipping.

Building Bridges: Networking and Collaboration

The workshop concluded with a lively networking session and a light lunch, giving participants the opportunity to engage in direct dialogue, strengthen connections, and lay the groundwork for future collaborations.

Acknowledgments

ICCI extends its heartfelt thanks to all the speakers, institutional partners, business leaders, and attendees who contributed to the success of the workshop. Events such as this are more than just formal gatherings—they are platforms for building bridges, fostering mutual understanding, and unlocking the potential of two complementary economies.

By promoting cross-border collaboration at the regional level, particularly in cities such as Genoa, the ICCI reaffirms its commitment to supporting the development of strong, lasting partnerships between Italy and India.

PHOTOS FROM THE EVENT