ROME - The other evening, Villa Wolkonsky, the official residence of the British Ambassador in Rome, became the splendid setting for a grand celebration of King Charles III's birthday.

 Hosted by Ambassador Lord Edward Llewellyn, (amid speculation by some guests that it was possibly his last KBC in Rome, given the possibility of a Labour government winkling him out of the post in the Eternal City as a Tory political appointee) the event on Thursday gathered over 2,500 guests, including dignitaries, government officials, and representatives from both the British and Italian communities, as well as the international diplomatic corps. This celebration in Rome paralleled the grand Trooping the Colour event held in London, highlighting the significance and continuity of this royal tradition.

 Villa Wolkonsky, renowned for its historical charm and beauty, opened its doors for the special occasion. Guests were welcomed into the villa’s lush gardens, adorned with elegant decorations befitting a royal celebration. The Honourable Artillery Company Band, the oldest regiment in the British Army, provided a musical backdrop, playing a mix of traditional and contemporary tunes that enhanced the festive atmosphere. This historic regiment, established in 1537, brought a sense of heritage and grandeur to the event.

 The celebration saw a robust attendance from the Italian government. Notable figures included Minister of the Interior Matteo Piantedosi, Minister of Culture Gennaro Sangiuliano, Undersecretary for Foreign Affairs Giorgio Silli, Deputy Minister of Enterprises and Made in Italy Valentino Valentini, the Prefect of Rome Lamberto Giannini, and the General Commander of the Guardia di Finanza Andrea De Gennaro. Their presence underscored the strong diplomatic ties and friendship between Italy and the United Kingdom.

 Additionally, the event highlighted young leaders from the newly launched Young Leaders’ Programme, a collaborative initiative between Ambassador Llewellyn and the Italian Ambassador to London, Inigo Lambertini. The five winners of the "Ambassador for a Day" contest, aimed at high school students, were also honored guests, symbolizing the future of UK-Italy relations.

 Guests were treated to a culinary journey showcasing the best of British and Italian flavors. Traditional British delicacies such as scones, Scottish salmon from St James Smokehouse, and cheeses from Cathedral City, Snowdonia, and Coombe Castle were served alongside Italian wines and Prosecco. Northern Ireland’s contribution included oysters from Megliofresco, further enriching the gourmet offerings. This blend of British and Italian gastronomy exemplified the cultural exchange and mutual appreciation between the two nations.

 King Charles III, like his mother Queen Elizabeth II before him, celebrates his birthday twice a year. Born on November 14, Charles observes the official birthday in June, a tradition dating back to 1748 during the reign of George II. This custom was established to ensure favorable weather for public celebrations, allowing for the grandeur of outdoor parades and festivities. Trooping the Colour, held annually in June, marks this occasion with a spectacular display of military precision and royal pageantry.

 In Rome, the celebration at Villa Wolkonsky was not only a tribute to the King’s birthday but also a manifestation of "party diplomacy." It was part of the Great campaign, a series of events organized by the British diplomatic mission in Italy to highlight the best of British culture and to foster bilateral relations.

 Ambassador Llewellyn, in his address, emphasized the deep-rooted friendship and strategic partnership between Italy and the United Kingdom. He reflected on the successful G7 Summit held in Borgo Egnazia and the continuous goodwill shared between the two countries. "The affection many Italians have for my country is reciprocated by the millions of British who visit Italy each year," Llewellyn remarked, reinforcing the cultural and economic bonds that tie the two nations.

 The celebration at Villa Wolkonsky was a testament to the enduring relationship between Italy and the UK, a relationship built on shared values, mutual respect, and a commitment to collaborative growth.

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