Antonio Bartoli, Italy’s next ambassador to India and Nepal, arrived in India at the end of July and has been roaming the streets of his new home in New Delhi, discovering new things like Humayun’s Tomb, Lodhi Gardens and the city’s colorful markets.
Mr Bartoli is an academic at the Corriere della Sera School of Journalism, studied at the LSE Summer School and published a paper on ‘asymmetric warfare’, before earning a master’s degree in international relations from the Polytechnic Institute.
Prior to his diplomatic career, he worked as a professional journalist from 1991 to 1997. As a member of the Order of Journalists and the Parliamentary Press Association, he covered politics and economics.
In 2012, he spent a year working at the U.S. Department of State, where he was responsible for economic dossier for the Middle East and North Africa.
As Ambassador of Tbilisi (2014-2019), he participated in political dialogue (the first visit of the President of the Italian Republic to Georgia), business and trade (particularly in the infrastructure, energy and hospitality sectors), scientific and cultural cooperation (Rome Several exhibitions have been held, ranging from mosaics to contemporary art, with a focus on Michelangelo, Bernini and De Chirico, and the number of students learning Italian has increased tenfold.
He is married to Esther and they have five daughters.
As part of a series of interviews with ambassadors, Bartoli spoke about their hometown of Delhi.
Edited excerpt:
What is your favorite place in the city that you often visit?
Since arriving in New Delhi, I have been delving into the unique (and sometimes hidden) beauties of this vibrant city with enthusiasm and curiosity. I have already had the opportunity to visit a certain number of historical sites. My favorite is Humayun’s Tomb. I was completely enchanted by its wonderful gardens and architectural majesty.
What are three things that left an impression on you during your stay in Delhi?
First of all, I consider myself still a newbie to Delhi and this country as a whole. I stayed here not just for a limited period of time, but most of all because of the incredible amount of art, culture and history that India boasts. It’s a wonderful legacy that will probably make me a ‘first to India’ even after my stay is over.
But if I had to choose today, this is my choice. Parks such as Lodhi Gardens and Nehru Park. These and other green spaces are great because you can enjoy nature and history at the same time just by taking a walk.
The second is street food. My favorite is the samosa.
Last but not least is the colorful market, a melting pot of culture and tradition. It reminds me of the famous and crowded markets of Naples and Palermo. It’s a great place to gain a deeper understanding of people, their lives, tastes, and habits.
Are you concerned about pollution in Delhi? How are you and your family dealing with it?
Even if you go outdoors, it is enough to protect yourself with an air purifier and a mask when indoors. I often spend all day outdoors at meetings and events, so being exposed to polluted air is no joke. But the question is not how to deal with it, but what to do not to deal with it.
Is there anything you would like Derry’s administration to do to make this city a better place?
I would be lying if I said that pollution is a big problem here. It’s huge. I understand that this is a big challenge that the government and all authorities are taking very seriously. But I believe that in India, as in Italy, everyone can be an agent of change.
What is your favorite food in Delhi?
I consider myself a gourmet lover and an open-minded food traveler, so I make endless discoveries every day in Delhi. I love the wide variety of local cuisine. I’m still discovering many of my spices and am keen to understate the best ways to use them. But in moderation.
I love simple food. Dal and naan are my favorites.
How is Delhi different from other major capitals and cities you have served in the past?
all. There is no place in this world where you can be considered a replica of someone else. And this is the beauty of being a diplomat. You live your life discovering new and different cultures, values and traditions, often far from the past, but perhaps surprisingly and unexpectedly close to your heart. Masu.
Will you miss you or your family if you say goodbye to this city?
I’m sure there are many. It all starts with the warmth and hospitality of the people. But it’s still too early to say goodbye. We are going to enjoy life in Delhi. We already are. For example, we were struck by the beauty of Prana Qila.
Do you have any memories that you think will stay with you forever?
There is no single episode. But the precise feeling is one of feeling at home despite diversity and often marked inequality. We Indians and Italians are really similar in our natural smiles, instant empathy, and the importance of friendship and family.
If you had to introduce Delhi to someone back home, what would you tell them?
I would like to describe Delhi as an unforgettable and overwhelming place with a mix of cultures, traditions, languages and cuisines. A challenging yet fascinating experience that can open your mind and conquer your soul. Incredible Delhi. Or, in the words of Khushwant Singh, “Delhi is not just a city, it is a feeling.”
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