Statement Regarding Upcoming Trade Mission to Italy and Ireland, April 27-May 1

According to Governor Lincoln D. Chafee’s Director of Communications Faye Zuckerman, “at the request of Commerce RI and as part of its economic development strategy Governor Chafee and Marcel Valois, the executive director of Commerce RI, will be meeting with companies that have expressed an interest in establishing operations here. These companies see Rhode Island as attractive because of its proximity in North America to Europe, as well as location in the busy northeast corridor, and the convenience of TF Green Airport, industrial ports, and rail and highway transportation systems.

“In addition to participating in business meetings with companies that have expressed interest in Rhode Island, they will meet with the Prime Minister of Ireland, Mayor of Rome and other heads of state.

“Donald Sweitzer, chairman of GTECH, who will be in Rome, has offered to join the Governor and Executive Director Valois as a private sector ambassador for the State. Lottomatica/GTECH has established business relationships in Italy and Ireland.” 

Below is a general travel itinerary:
•Sunday, April 27: Arrives in Rome, Italy.
•Monday, April 28: Business meetings in Rome and Naples area.
•Tuesday, April 29: Travel to northern Italy for business meetings. 
•Wednesday, April 30: Travel to Ireland and attend business meetings. 
•Thursday, May 1: Business meetings in Ireland and return to United States.