Pelosi, Congressional Delegation Meet with Italian President Giorgio Napolitano

Rome – Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi, who is leading a bipartisan delegation to Italy and Afghanistan, today met with Italian President Giorgio Napolitano. Joining Pelosi at the meeting were Congressman John Mica (R-FL), Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), Congressman Leonard Boswell (D-IA), Congressman Bill Pascrell (D-NJ) and U.S. Ambassador to Italy David Thorne.

The delegation discussed the role of the United States and Italy as members of joint NATO operations in Libya. There are currently more than 10,000 U.S. military personnel stationed in Italy and the country hosts six U.S. military bases including Vicenza.

The delegation also discussed with the Italian President their two-day visit to Afghanistan, emphasizing the recently expanding commitment of the Afghan Government to the training of that nation's military and police, and the expanded leadership role of women in rebuilding that nation.

Leader Pelosi presented President Napolitano a proclamation issued by President Obama in celebration of Italy's 150th anniversary.

“On the 150th anniversary of Italy’s unification, we celebrate the birth of modern Italy and the brave patriots who made this possible," Pelosi said.

“Today, we also honor the ties between the United States and Italy. Our shared history and culture only serve to strengthen the U.S.-Italy alliance in this new century.”