President George Manneh Weah has extended sincere greetings to His Excellency Sergio Mattarella and through him to the Government and people of the Republic of Italy on the occasion commemorating the 73rd anniversary of the Felta della Republica; the National and Republic Day of Italy.

The Italian National and Republic Day is the national holiday that marks the day when Italy became a Republic on June 2nd, 1946. In Italy it commemorates the referendum of 1946, when Italians were asked to decide what form of government they desired.

Until 1946 Italy was a kingdom ruled by the House of Savoy. On June 2nd, 1946 Italy became a Republic after 85 years of Monarchy. Thus, the monarchs of the House of Savoy were deposed and exiled.

According to a Foreign Ministry release, in his message to His Excellency Mr. Sergio Mattarella, President of the Republic of Italy, President Weah highlighted the longstanding relation subsisting between Italy and Liberia dating back to 1862, when both countries signed a treaty of amity, commerce and navigation.

The Liberian leader furthered that “as we join in celebration, it is my earnest hope that our two countries will deepen relations to encompass agriculture, science and technology, and human development.

President Weah expressed his desire that he and his Italian counterpart will continue to work together both bilaterally and on multilaterally fronts on key issues such as the promotion of universal human rights, security and peace.

He then wish His Excellency continue well-being and for the Government and people of the Republic of Italy sustained peace and renewed economic progress.