The October Visit of H.E. Armando Varricchio, Italian Ambassador to the United States, to Charlotte, NC

CCI-NC, with the World Affairs Council of Charlotte, was pleased to welcome His Excellency Armando Varricchio, Italian Ambassador to the United States, to the state of North Carolina on October 26, 2017.

This was his first official visit to the state since being named ambassador on March 2, 2016.

The day started with the V.I.P. reception prior to Ambassador Varricchio speaking at the World Affairs Council of Charlotte's Ambassador Circle Series Luncheon. Held at the Charlotte City Club, the event was sold out and attended by the Honorable Elaine Marshall, Secretary of State for North Carolina; the Honorable Jennifer Roberts, Mayor of Charlotte; Honorary Consuls from multiple countries, including Mr. Klaus Becker of Germany, Mr. Wayne Cooper of Mexico, Mr. Chris Domeny from Hungary, and Mr. Peter Vasicko of the Czech Republic; Italian business leaders from around the

state; Charlotte community and business members; staff from local universities and institutions of higher learning; as well as young students from area schools. During the V.I.P. reception, attendees were also treated to the musical prowess of Italian harpist, Ms. Chiara Capobianco, a local artist in Charlotte.

Ambassador Varricchio spoke about the importance of business relationships between Italy and the United States, with particular emphasis on North Carolina. He was delighted to take questions from the audience and was particularly pleased with the thoughtful questions from the student participants.

Ambassador Varricchio also wrote a guest opinion piece for the Charlotte Business Journal, which encapsulated his talk nicely. Take a moment to read his article here.

Following the WACC lunch, CCI-NC hosted an Italian Community Reception for Ambassador Varricchio. Italian business leaders and citizens from around the state came to meet the ambassador. They enjoyed Prosecco, coffee, and light desserts at the Charlotte City Club while Ambassador Varricchio spoke about their needs from the Italian government. The event was held in Italian and Ms.

Following the WACC lunch, CCI-NC hosted an Italian Community Reception for Ambassador Varricchio. Italian business leaders and citizens from around the state came to meet the ambassador. Everyone enjoyed Prosecco, coffee, and light desserts at the Charlotte City Club while Ambassador Varricchio spoke about their needs from the Italian government. The event was held in Italian and Ms. Capobianco played the harp for the attendees as they arrived. CCI-NC also presented the ambassador with a book on Charlotte to thank him for his time here.