Mattarella visits Pantelleria, calls island a heritage to be valued for the future

Italian President Sergio Mattarella visited the island of Pantelleria to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the establishment of Sicily's first National Park. He was welcomed by, among others, the Minister of Environment and Energy Security, Gilberto Pichetto Fratin.

“

At my age, one does not make plans, except for the immediate future, but I do not exclude coming to Pantelleria for a period of rest.

During his visit, Mattarella spoke about the significance of Italy's smaller islands, stating, "The minor islands of our country are all of great importance for its balance and its future and require constant care and protection, each with its own specific conditions and characteristics." He highlighted Pantelleria's unique blend of nature and history, noting its long-standing appeal to various Mediterranean civilizations.

“

The minor islands of our country are all of great importance for its balance and its future and require constant care and protection, each with its own specific conditions and characteristics.

The President stressed that the island's heritage should be preserved and developed for the future, not just admired as a static entity. "It is a heritage that must be valued not as if it were a photograph, but for the future," he remarked.

“

In Pantelleria there is an intertwining of nature and history, a long history that has seen all the protagonists of the Mediterranean seek Pantelleria.

Mattarella also alluded to a potential personal connection with the island, saying, "At my age, one does not make plans, except for the immediate future, but I do not exclude coming to Pantelleria for a period of rest." His visit underscores the national importance placed on preserving and promoting the unique natural and historical assets of islands like Pantelleria.

“

It is a heritage that must be valued not as if it were a photograph, but for the future.