President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov has congratulated President of the Italian Republic Sergio Mattarella on the occasion of Italy's national holiday — Republic Day, which this year marks the 80th anniversary of the referendum that led to the establishment of the Italian Republic, Turkmen state media reported on Monday.
In his congratulatory message, President Serdar Berdimuhamedov wished President Sergio Mattarella good health, happiness, and continued success in his work, as well as peace, prosperity, and well-being for the people of Italy.
To commemorate the anniversary, several cultural events are being held in Ashgabat. The Embassy of Italy in Turkmenistan has organized a festive concert titled Festa della Musica, which will take place on June 3 at the Magtymguly National Music and Drama Theater. The concert will feature Italian soprano Zoe Papas and the State Symphony Orchestra of Turkmenistan under the baton of its artistic director and chief conductor, Resul Gylyjov. Zoe Papas also conducted a masterclass at the Maya Kulyyeva Turkmen National Conservatory.
According to official information from the Senate of the Italian Republic, Republic Day commemorates the nationwide referendum held on June 2, 1946, during which Italians voted on the country's future form of government. The majority supported the establishment of a republic, leading to the abolition of the monarchy. The process of drafting Italy's new Constitution began later that year, and the Constitution entered into force on January 1, 1948.
Republic Day remains one of Italy's most important national holidays, celebrating the country's democratic foundations and republican institutions.
