Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – The iconic Italian Navy training ship, the Amerigo Vespucci, docked in Puerto Vallarta on a rainy Tuesday morning, marking a significant moment in the celebration of the 150th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Italy and Mexico. This visit is part of the ship’s extensive world tour.
The Amerigo Vespucci, which measures 101 meters in length and 15.5 meters in width, and weighs approximately four thousand tons, arrived at the dock at around 8 AM. Despite the rainy weather, the crew efficiently maneuvered and secured the vessel, preparing it to receive a warm welcome from Mexican authorities and the Italian diplomatic delegation.
Among the Mexican officials who boarded the ship were the interim mayor, Francisco José Martínez Gil, the director of Tourism and Economic Development, Christian Preciado Cázares, and representatives from the Jalisco state government, the Mexican Navy, the Port Captaincy, and the Administration of the National Port System (ASIPONA). The Italian delegation was led by the Italian ambassador to Mexico, Alessandro Modiano, and the defense attaché, Andrea Intermite. They were graciously received by Captain Giuseppe Lai of the Amerigo Vespucci.
Celebrating Centuries of Friendship
The diplomatic relationship between Italy and Mexico, established in 1874, has spanned over a century and a half, characterized by a continuous trajectory of friendship and increasingly close cooperation. The arrival of the Amerigo Vespucci, a floating museum, symbolizes the strong ties between the two nations. The ship will be open to the public and schools, offering a unique opportunity to explore a piece of naval history.
The Amerigo Vespucci is an impressive vessel, equipped with 26 sails spread across three masts, the largest of which reaches 50 meters high. Despite its classic sail configuration, the ship also possesses engines and is manned by a crew of approximately 400 sailors. Over its 20-month world tour, the ship will traverse three oceans and dock in 28 countries.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Following the arrival ceremony, Ambassador Alessandro Modiano and Captain Giuseppe Lai made a courtesy visit to the municipal palace, where they were received by interim mayor Francisco José Martínez Gil. Accompanied by Colonel Andrea Intermite, the Italian military attaché in Mexico, the diplomatic delegation, and local representatives, the meeting was described as a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations.
Ambassador Modiano proposed the twinning of Puerto Vallarta with an Italian coastal city, a suggestion warmly received by Martínez Gil. The mayor expressed enthusiasm for the proposal, highlighting the potential for a historic partnership that could further cultural and economic ties between the two regions.
Captain Lai expressed his gratitude for the warm reception his crew received in Puerto Vallarta, noting the significance of this visit as the ship’s first to the city. He also mentioned that the world tour would conclude on February 26, 2025.
A Cultural Exchange
In a gesture of goodwill, the mayor presented gifts and souvenirs from Puerto Vallarta to Ambassador Modiano, Captain Lai, Colonel Intermite, and members of the Italian delegation. In return, Captain Lai gifted a book detailing the history of the Amerigo Vespucci to Mayor Martínez Gil.
The visit concluded with a tour of Puerto Vallarta’s scenic boardwalk, an invitation extended by the local municipality, allowing the Italian delegation to experience the charm and hospitality of the city firsthand.
This visit by the Amerigo Vespucci not only commemorates a milestone in diplomatic relations but also opens the door to new opportunities for cultural exchange and cooperation between Italy and Mexico, symbolizing a bright future built on a rich history of friendship.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - The iconic Italian Navy training ship, the Amerigo Vespucci, docked in Puerto Vallarta on a rainy Tuesday morning, marking a significant moment in the celebration of the 150th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Italy and Mexico. This visit is part of the ship's extensive world tour.
