by InTrieste
Officials from Friuli Venezia Giulia region and the U.S. state of Virginia reaffirmed their commitment on Wednesday to expanding a partnership that has grown steadily since the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding less than two years ago.
Meeting in Milan, Friuli Venezia Giulia Governor Massimiliano Fedriga and Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger reviewed progress made under the agreement, highlighting cooperation in business, science, higher education and institutional exchanges.
According to regional officials, the partnership has already led to reciprocal business investments, economic missions in both territories and exchanges between government and industry representatives. Collaboration has also expanded in agriculture, manufacturing, trade, tourism and cultural initiatives, while universities on both sides are exploring new academic partnerships.
The two leaders identified several areas for future cooperation, including artificial intelligence, life sciences, sustainable agriculture and winemaking, as well as increased investment opportunities and commercial exchanges.
They also pointed to shared strategic advantages, including strong research ecosystems and major international ports. Officials cited the Port of Trieste and the Port of Norfolk as gateways that could support closer economic ties between the region and the U.S. East Coast.
Fedriga and Spanberger agreed to encourage annual exchanges involving technical, institutional and business delegations, while broadening collaboration in education, research, culture and the arts.
Among the initiatives highlighted were the establishment of PMT in Friuli Venezia Giulia, joint business webinars, multiple visits by the Virginia Small Business Development Center and U.S. business delegations to the region, and a technical mission from Friuli Venezia Giulia to Virginia in 2025.
In agriculture, officials noted ongoing technical cooperation following Virginia’s delegation visit to Friuli Venezia Giulia and the forthcoming signing of a collaboration agreement between the University of Udine and Virginia Tech.
The meeting also underscored efforts to strengthen cultural and tourism ties, including a mapping of Virginia’s principal museums and cultural institutions intended to support future joint projects and exchanges.
