Roberto Vannacci will be at the Ambrosetti Forum in Cernobbio between Jordan Bardella, Edi Rama, half the government and Matteo Renzi

Roberto Vannacci, head of the right-wing party Futuro Nazionale, will attend the Ambrosetti Forum in Cernobbio alongside high-profile figures such as Jordan Bardella, Edi Rama, half of Italy’s government, and Matteo Renzi. The annual gathering, hosted at Villa d'Este from September 4 to 6, has confirmed Vannacci's inclusion in its list of speakers. His presence adds to the diverse mix of attendees, which includes Jordan Bardella, president of France’s Rassemblement National, US Undersecretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, Defense Chief Luciano Portolano, and several members of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government, including Matteo Salvini. Also participating will be Matteo Renzi, who previously avoided attending similar business summits while serving as prime minister. The forum, known for hosting global leaders and policymakers, announced the participation of opposition voices in its traditional Agenda for Italy session. Among those set to speak are representatives from opposition parties, including Angelo Bonelli of Alliance for Greens and Left, Carlo Calenda of Action, Giuseppe Conte of Five Star Movement, and Elly Schlein of the Democratic Party. The event will feature delegations from nine countries, Azerbaijan, Ukraine, Italy, Croatia, Albania, the United States, Saudi Arabia, Portugal, and Spain, as well as three European Commissioners, the President of the European Council, and the EU Rapporteur for the Single Market. The United States delegation will include Jacob Helberg, Matthew G. Whitaker, Gina M. Raimondo, and another senior official specializing in energy policy. Vannacci’s appearance aligns with the forum’s long-standing tradition of inviting controversial figures to engage in dialogue. This practice dates back to 2021, when the event faced criticism for allowing Russian President Vladimir Putin and Libyan officials to participate despite their associations with human rights violations. At the time, Valerio De Molli, founder of the European House Ambrosetti, defended the decision, stating he had invited individuals from extreme positions to encourage debate. He cited the example of Dutch far-right leader Geert Wilders, a regular attendee, explaining his personal disagreement with Wilders did not prevent him from hosting discussions. De Molli added that even groups such as the Taliban could be welcomed under the same principle of open dialogue. The forum, headquartered in Cernobbio near Lake Como, has established itself as a platform for international discourse. Its reputation as a neutral and independent think tank has allowed it to attract a wide range of participants, from political leaders to corporate executives. The event is structured around thematic sessions addressing pressing global issues, often featuring keynote speeches and panel discussions. In recent years, it has grown in influence, drawing attention from both European and North American policymakers. De Molli emphasized the importance of fostering conversation among opposing viewpoints. His approach contrasts with more restrictive policies adopted by other institutions, which sometimes exclude controversial figures based on ideological grounds. Instead, the Ambrosetti Forum prioritizes the exchange of ideas, believing that engagement can lead to understanding and compromise. This philosophy has been consistent throughout the forum’s history, even when facing public scrutiny over its guest selections. Participants this year will include not only Italian politicians but also foreign dignitaries and international experts. The inclusion of Vannacci highlights the forum’s willingness to engage with diverse perspectives, reinforcing its role as a space for open dialogue. While some critics argue that hosting such figures undermines ethical standards, others view it as a necessary step toward fostering mutual understanding. As the event approaches, the focus remains on the discussions and collaborations that will take place within the walls of Villa d'Este.