Consul General Massimo Carnelos has successfully concluded an official visit to Salt Lake City, held in conjunction with his participation in Silicon Slopes—one of Utah’s premier gatherings for the innovation and technology community. The visit provided a valuable opportunity to deepen engagement with one of the most dynamic ecosystems in the United States.
Once again, the mission underscored Utah’s importance as a strategic partner for Italy. With its highly diversified economy, among the fastest GDP growth rates in the nation, a thriving startup culture, and a young, highly skilled workforce strongly oriented toward science and technology, Utah stands out as a hub of opportunity and forward-looking collaboration.
During his visit, the Consul General held a series of institutional and operational meetings aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation across key strategic sectors, including aerospace, defense, advanced manufacturing, biotechnology and life sciences, energy, critical minerals, and sports tourism.
Particular emphasis was placed on the proposed launch of a direct air connection between Salt Lake City and Rome—an initiative that would significantly enhance business, tourism, and cultural exchanges. The visit also advanced prospects for academic and scientific collaboration with the University of Utah, including engagement with Nobel Laureate in Molecular Biology Professor Mario Capecchi.
Meetings with representatives from the Office of the Governor of Utah, the Salt Lake City Council, and World Trade Center Utah further expanded dialogue on new areas of cooperation, while also reinforcing the sister-city relationship with the Metropolitan City of Turin.
The program also featured meaningful cultural and historical moments. The Consul General toured the headquarters of Kühl Worldwide, a leading technical apparel company that sources fabrics from Italy, highlighting the strength of commercial ties. At the Marriott Library of the University of Utah—the state’s principal library—he explored an important collection documenting the history of Italian immigration to Utah. The visit concluded with a solemn tribute at the Fort Douglas War Cemetery, resting place of twelve Italian prisoners of war.
The Consul General expressed sincere gratitude to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for their warm hospitality and to Italy’s Honorary Consul Nick Fuoco for the outstanding organization of a rich and high-level itinerary.
Special appreciation was also extended to Mike Homer, former Honorary Consul of Italy; to the Italian scientists working to establish a Utah chapter of ISSNAF; and to the Italian and Italian-American community, whose continued engagement plays a vital role in promoting Italy throughout the region.
