Forging Partnerships, Building bridges: PCCI and CNA unite for inclusive growth.

On November 18, 2024, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce in Italy (PCCI) in Rome held its 3rd Monthly General Assembly at the Tali & Tiago Restaurant, strategically located near the Vatican. The event gathered members of the Filipino business community in Rome, representatives from the Philippine Embassy, and officials from CNA—one of Rome's largest chambers for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) committed to fostering inclusive growth.

Highlights of the Assembly

Opening Remarks by PCCI President Leopoldo Reyes

President Leopoldo Reyes inaugurated the assembly by acknowledging the strong collaboration with the Philippine Embassy and its vital role in uplifting the entrepreneurial spirit of Filipinos in Rome. He also extended gratitude to CNA for their participation, emphasizing the importance of exploring collaborative efforts to achieve shared benefits for all stakeholders.

Acknowledgment by PCCI Vice President

The PCCI Vice President warmly welcomed and acknowledged the distinguished guests, expressing gratitude for their presence and support for the Chamber’s initiatives.

Message from the Philippine Embassy

Minister Nina Cainglet, representing the Philippine Embassy, read an inspiring message from the Philippine Ambassador. The Ambassador highlighted the dynamic initiatives of PCCI and reiterated the Embassy’s commitment to supporting Filipino entrepreneurs in Rome. He expressed optimism about the potential collaboration between CNA and PCCI to foster growth and sustainable development. Minister Cainglet also shared her personal insights as she transitions into her next role as the future Ambassador to Bangladesh, vowing to carry forward the lessons learned from PCCI's successes in Rome.

CNA's Participation and Collaboration

Sir Indra Perera, CNA’s Honorary President, expressed his enthusiasm for future partnerships, recognizing the contributions of foreign entrepreneurs to Italy’s economy. He extended an invitation for PCCI to host its next assembly at CNA's offices, offering access to their facilities to strengthen ties further.

Dott. Fabio Bezzi, director of CNA head office in Rome, also addressed the assembly, lauding the growing membership of CNA and the importance of unity among entrepreneurs to amplify their voices in policymaking. He shared a personal anecdote from his meeting with Pope Francis earlier that day, relaying the Pope’s call to be “artisans of goodwill.” As a gesture of goodwill, Sir Fabio presented a special gift from the Pope to President Reyes and Minister Cainglet.

Closing Remarks by Chairman Dennis Carrascoso

Following an engaging open forum and a sumptuous dinner courtesy of Tali & Tiago, Chairman Dennis Carrascoso concluded the event with words of gratitude. He affirmed that this assembly marks the beginning of more meaningful collaborations between PCCI and CNA, paving the way for a brighter future for Filipino entrepreneurs in Rome.

The evening encapsulated a spirit of unity, collaboration, and shared

purpose among the Filipino business community and their Italian counterparts, setting the stage for long-term partnerships that will benefit all.