The Amerigo Vespucci, a historic Italian Navy training ship, docked in Jeddah for public visits until January 30, as part of its two-year world tour. The ship’s arrival highlights the cultural and diplomatic ties between Saudi Arabia and Italy, marked by a ceremonial event featuring notable officials. The vessel’s journey, which emphasizes traditional navigation skills, aims to strengthen international friendships while promoting Italian culture through Villaggio Italia.
On Monday morning, the Amerigo Vespucci, a historic training vessel of the Italian Navy, arrived at the Jeddah Yacht Club and Marina, where it will be accessible to the public until January 30. This visit marks the vessel’s 33rd stop on its two-year global tour, which commenced on July 1, 2023, from Genoa, Italy. Over this journey, the ship will visit five continents, 30 countries, and 35 ports before returning to the Mediterranean.
Named after the renowned Italian explorer Amerigo Vespucci, the ship symbolizes his contributions to cartography in the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Vespucci was among the first to recognize that lands discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1492 were not part of Asia but an independent continent, later named America in his honor by cartographer Martin Waldseemüller in 1507.
The inaugural event for the Villaggio Italia in Jeddah was attended by notable figures, including Saudi Assistant Minister of Defense Talal bin Abdullah Al-Otaibi, Italian Minister of Defense Guido Crosetto, and other dignitaries. The ceremony celebrated the historic relationship between Saudi Arabia and Italy and highlighted the ship’s significance in fostering cultural and diplomatic ties.
Minister Guido Crosetto emphasized the ship’s reliance on traditional navigation skills rather than modern technology, stating, “This is not an easy ship because it did not rely on modern technology but relied on human skills.” He reaffirmed the continuing friendship between the two nations.
Assistant Minister Al-Otaibi welcomed the ship’s arrival, acknowledging its importance as a symbol of cooperation and commitment to enhancing bilateral naval relations. He expressed appreciation for the event’s role in promoting peace and security between the nations.
Ambassador Carlo Baldocci commented on the visit, noting, “The Amerigo Vespucci’s visit to Jeddah reflects the enduring friendship between our nations.” He encouraged public engagement in both the ship and the Italian cultural offerings at Villaggio Italia, which opened Tuesday.
Captain Giuseppe Lai described the 19-month journey as challenging yet rewarding. He conveyed pride in reaching Jeddah, noting, “We are very proud to show the value and history of Italy.” The ship is slated to complete its tour by June 10.
Following stops in major cities worldwide, the Amerigo Vespucci’s presence in Jeddah will feature interactive events like painting competitions, film screenings, and a concert by the Italian Air Force band. Public visits to the ship will take place on specified dates and times at the Jeddah Yacht Club.
The Amerigo Vespucci, a historic vessel resembling Italy’s maritime tradition, serves as a training ship and represents a rich legacy of exploration and navigation. Its current global tour aims to promote Italian culture while strengthening diplomatic relations with various countries, culminating in significant events such as Villaggio Italia, which showcases Italian products and cultural heritage. The ship’s journey reflects both historical importance and contemporary diplomatic efforts between nations. Jeddah’s strategic maritime location makes it a vital inclusion for international events, highlighting the kingdom’s open-minded approach towards cultural exchange and cooperation. Such events reinforce the long-standing ties between Saudi Arabia and Italy and present opportunities for collaboration in various sectors beyond military and naval engagements.
The visit of the Amerigo Vespucci serves as a bridge between Italian and Saudi cultures, reinforcing bilateral ties through shared history, tradition, and mutual respect. The series of events planned in Jeddah highlight the significance of cultural diplomacy in today’s global landscape. As the ship continues its tour, it not only promotes Italy’s maritime legacy but also fosters lasting connections with the nations it visits.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
