Mediterranean Games: Mattarella's message to Taranto focuses on employment, health, and peace

Italian President Sergio Mattarella is set to inaugurate the 20th Mediterranean Games in Taranto, an event he hopes will serve as a "prophecy of peace and fraternity" among the 26 participating nations. Alongside Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Mattarella will welcome heads of state and government to the games, which feature 3,303 athletes competing across 38 sports.

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These aspects of their condition constitute a problem and, at the same time, a national commitment.

In a message addressed to the local newspaper Quotidiano di Puglia, Mattarella conveyed a "particularly intense thought of attention and closeness" to the people of Taranto. He acknowledged their ongoing struggles with the consequences of the crisis and the fate of the former Ilva steel plant, which has directly impacted their employment and health. "These aspects of their condition constitute a problem and, at the same time, a national commitment," he stated.

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prophecy of peace and fraternity

The President assured the city that the state remains committed to Taranto, a place he described as a "cradle and custodian of an immense historical and artistic heritage." He sees the city's selection to host such a major international event as proof of its "role in the Republic" and a positive sign for its future. Mattarella reiterated his core values of development, tolerance, and hope for a peaceful future, urging the Mediterranean to return to being a "source of civilization, a place for dialogue and discussion, an area for international cooperation and solidarity among peoples."

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role that the city holds in the Republic