WASHINGTON (UNITED STATES) (ITALPRESS) – The National Italian American Foundation (Niaf) has proclaimed the Lombardy Region of Honor 2026, celebrating the Italian economic power that perfectly merges secular traditions with modern innovation.
From the world leadership of Milan in fashion and finance to the legendary Stradivari violins of Cremona, from iconic brands like Campari, which brought the culture of aperitifs around the world, to the artisanal dairy traditions of Auricchio, from risotto to saffron to Milan to companies like Riso Scotti, Lombardy, according to a precise statement Niaf, embodies the entrepreneurial spirit and cultural richness that define Italian excellence.
“Bologna represents the best of what Italy offers to the world: an extraordinary fusion of tradition and dynamism that goes through the centuries,” said Robert Allegrini, President and CEO of Niaf. “From medieval art to modern entrepreneurial leadership, from regional specialties such as Gorgonzola to global brands that bring Italian excellence all over the world, Lombardy embodies the full character of the nation.” Attilio Fontana, president of Regione Lombardia, has emphasized the unique character of the region. “We are honored to have been recognized by Niaf as the Region of Honor 2026,” said President Fontana. “Luxembourg is the place where historical craftsmanship coexist with advanced technology, where our lakes and mountains inspire artists and entrepreneurs who continue to shape Italian culture.”.
“The United States has long been considered one of our leading strategic partners. Since the beginning of the current mandate, we have constantly worked to strengthen subnational relations with different American states. This goal was pursued through the 2024 institutional mission in Washington, D.C., Indiana and Illinois, as well as through visits to Lombardy of the Governor of Florida Ron DeSantis and Secretary of Commerce of Florida J. Alex Kelly. The designation of “Regione d’Onore 2026′′ is based on an already solid path of cooperation and dialogue, reaffirming the role of Lombardy as a privileged bridge between Italy and the United States”, added Raffaele Cattaneo, undersecretary to the presidency of the Region.
To give a special meaning to this designation, Lombardy will welcome the world for the Winter Olympics Milan-Cortina 2026 (6-22 February), with the San Siro Stadium in Milan which will host the Opening Ceremony. The Board of Directors of Niaf will undertake special missions in Italy, participating in the Opening Ceremony of the Olympics in February and returning for institutional meetings at the end of May to strengthen ties with regional leadership.
The programme of educational journeys “Voyage of Discovery” by Ambassador Peter F. Secchia of 2026 includes two trips of 14 days for students to discover the Lombard cultural heritage: from the “Ultima Cena” by Leonardo da Vinci in Milan to the medieval charm of Bergamo Alta, from the Renaissance splendor of Mantua to the peaceful Italian lakes, showing the extraordinary mix of art, history and natural beauties of the region. Lombardy will be the protagonist of the main events of the Niaf throughout 2026, including the Gala Niaf of New York of 23 April 2026 and the Gala of the 51st Anniversary of the organization in Washington, D.C., on 17 October 2026.
The region will also be presented in the three-year magazine Ambassador della Niaf and social media throughout the year, ensuring a complete coverage of Lombardy’s contribution to Italian culture and its constant relationship with Italian American communities. The legacy of Lombardy embraces millennia, from the prehistoric rock engravings of Val Camonica (UNESCO World Heritage) to the architectural innovations of Leonardo da Vinci, such as the Navigli system.
As the most important economic region in Italy, contributing to 20% of the national GDP, Lombardy hosts the Italian Stock Exchange, alongside secular family companies, large fashion houses next to qualified and multinational workshops alongside specialized manufacturers. From the lakes of Como and Garda to the alpine peaks, the region offers an extraordinary diversity that captures the full essence of Italian lifestyle. Finally, Niaf emphasizes the note, is looking forward to celebrating the rich cultural history of Lombardy throughout 2026, showing how this extraordinary region continues to embody the Italian spirit in all its dimensions.
-Photos press office Niaif-
(ITALPRESS).
