New Florence Centre to Boost Training and Cooperation Efforts

A new centre dedicated to training and international cooperation is set to open in Florence, within the historic complex of the former Istituto Agronomico per l’Oltremare. The project, led by Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will serve as a hub for skills development and support for Italian businesses operating abroad.

The initiative was announced by Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani during the National Conference on Export and Business Internationalisation held in Milan. It forms part of Italy’s broader strategy to strengthen economic ties with Africa and other priority regions under the government’s Mattei Plan.

The centre will coordinate professional training, promote regular migration channels linked to the needs of Italian industry, and foster partnerships that support growth and stability in partner countries. According to the Foreign Ministry, it will focus on several key areas, including the training of experts in internationalisation processes — professionals able to guide small and medium-sized enterprises in expanding to global markets.

Another major theme will be sustainable water resource management, reflecting Italy’s commitment to environmental cooperation and preparation for upcoming international meetings on water governance in 2026.

The Florence centre will also enhance collaboration in the agri-food sector, supporting food security projects and value chains central to both Italian exports and development cooperation. It will work in synergy with Rome’s UN Food Hub and Italian initiatives in the G7 and G20 frameworks.

Designed as a flexible institution, the centre is expected to expand into other strategic fields over time, reinforcing Italy’s international presence in sustainable growth and cooperation.

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