Welcome Association Italy to the Congress “Global Convergences: Building Bridges Between Cultures”

RoRome, May 13, 2025 - Welcome Association Italy (WAI) participated yesterday, at the invitation of Dr. Foad Aodi, president of AMSI, UMEM and the United to Unite Movement, in the congress "Global Convergences: Building Bridges between Cultures, " held at the Pontifical Antonianum University in Rome.

The event, organized with the support of Federformazione, provided an important opportunity for cross-cultural discussion and dialogue, bringing together cultural, diplomatic and civil society figures committed to the promotion of democracy and dialogue between cultures.

Representing Welcome Association Italy, Carlo Palumbo, Deputy Secretary General, spoke, who said:

"Participation in a congress like 'Global Convergences' allows us to broaden our commitment to promoting intercultural dialogue and social inclusion. It is crucial to build bridges between different communities in the territory, using culture and confrontation as tools to break down barriers and foster social cohesion. I thank Dr. Foad Aodi for the invitation and for the constant collaboration with WAI, which confirms itself as a point of reference in the Italian intercultural scene."

Speakers at the event, in addition to Foad Aodi, who stressed the importance of creating synergies between immigrant communities and the Italian social fabric to promote inclusion and social cohesion, included:

• H.E. Fidèle Sambassi Khakessa, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Democratic Republic of Congo in Italy, who highlighted the fundamental role of associations involved in the integration of foreigners into the Italian fabric. The event received the support of the Embassy of Congo, demonstrating the diplomatic commitment to promoting intercultural dialogue.
• Fabrizio Lobasso, Deputy Director General for the Promotion of the Country System and Central Director for Economic Internationalization at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, who spoke about the role of Italian institutions in supporting international dialogue and cooperation initiatives.
• Br. Agustín Hernández Vidales , Rector of the Pontifical Antonianum University, who opened the proceedings with a speech focused on the importance of education and interreligious dialogue as fundamental tools for building a more inclusive and supportive society.

Other notable speakers included:

• Essa Eskander - President of the Federation of Egyptian Workers in Italy
• Demetra Hampton - Actress
• Antonio Giannelli - President of Colors for Peace
• Cristina Di Silvio - EU International Relations Director for USFTI
• Paolo Patrizio - Chief of Staff of Meritocracy Italy
• Rosario Errico - Film director and producer

Welcome Association Italy's participation is part of a collaborative effort initiated with AMSI and other associations to promote intercultural awareness and dialogue through events of national and international significance.