On this occasion, Mr. Balla emphasized that this prestigious Royal distinction reflects Morocco’s appreciation for Armando Barucco’s valuable efforts in strengthening Moroccan-Italian friendship, promoting bilateral relations, and consolidating dialogue and partnership between the two countries.

The Ambassador also praised the Italian diplomat’s efforts to foster economic cooperation opportunities and his commitment to promoting bilateral cultural exchanges.

“Morocco and Italy share a longstanding tradition of friendship, rooted in history, culture, and a common vision of the Mediterranean as a space for dialogue, peace, and prosperity,” he noted.

For his part, Mr. Barucco expressed his profound gratitude to His Majesty the King for this prestigious distinction, saying he was deeply honored to receive the decoration after spending more than four years at the head of his country’s diplomatic mission in Rabat.

He also praised the Kingdom’s major achievements and progress across various sectors, highlighting the positive momentum in bilateral relations.

The ceremony was attended by several prominent figures from various backgrounds, including former EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and former Vice-President of the European Commission, Federica Mogherini; former Italian Deputy Ministers of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Marina Sereni and Marina Del Re; as well as other senior Italian diplomatic officials.