Locatelli: In Tokyo, the Initiative "Italy–Japan: 160 Years of History. Together for Inclusion"

ROME, 28 OCT – On Tuesday, 27 October 2026, the Embassy of Italy in Tokyo hosted the initiative "Italy–Japan: 160 Years of History. Together for Inclusion", promoted by the Minister for Disabilities, Alessandra Locatelli.

The event, organised in collaboration with the Embassy of Italy in Tokyo, was held as part of the programme of initiatives marking the 160th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Italy and Japan.

"A valuable opportunity to share experiences and best practices and to promote a shared vision of inclusion as a fundamental element for the development of our societies," Minister Locatelli explained. "Not merely a dinner, but an opportunity to start embracing a new perspective."

"With this initiative," she added, "we wanted to celebrate 160 years of friendship between Italy and Japan by highlighting the value of people, their abilities and the opportunities that arise when no one is left behind. Through work, cuisine, art and music, the participating associations reminded us that inclusion is built every day, together."

The initiative involved twelve associations from across Italy working on workplace inclusion. One hundred participants – including young persons with disabilities, educators and accompanying staff – were involved in food preparation, table service and musical entertainment.

"Once again," Minister Locatelli concluded, "we have demonstrated how important it is to invest in people: when we provide opportunities, we give value to everyone. This is the real challenge, now and for the future, to build more attentive, aware and cohesive communities."

During the event, the travelling exhibition "Inclusion and Disability: The Solfagnano Charter – Nothing About Us Without Us" was also inaugurated. Inspired by the final document of the first G7 on Inclusion and Disability in 2024, the exhibition has toured all G7 countries since the beginning of the year, with the aim of presenting the eight priorities endorsed at the world's first ministerial meeting dedicated to Inclusion and Disability, held under the Italian Presidency.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by Minister Alessandra Locatelli, Japanese Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Family and Disability Eriko Imai, and the Ambassador of Italy to Japan, Mario Vattani.