During an official ceremony at the Lugano Civic PalaceThe Austrian Embassy in Switzerland has awarded important honors to two key figures in bilateral relations between Austria and Ticino: Helga Martinelli, founder of the Austria-Club Ticino, and Joseph Perale, Honorary Consul of Austria in Lugano. The event brought together institutional and diplomatic representatives, underscoring the continuity of a relationship that has developed over the years through cultural, scientific, and regional collaboration initiatives.
The Mayor of Lugano attended the ceremony Michael Foletti, the Austrian Ambassador to Switzerland His Excellency Markus Josef Wuketich, the Consul General of Austria for Switzerland Daniela Boltman, the Honorary Consul of Austria in Lucerne Sara Riedweg and several representatives from the institutional and civil spheres. The joint presence of the authorities highlighted the significance of the meeting, which took place within the framework of consolidated diplomatic relations.
Helga Martinelli was awarded the Medal of Honor for her commitment to promoting cultural and institutional relations between Austria and Ticino. Through the activities of the Austria-Club Ticino, she has contributed over time to creating opportunities for exchange, public meetings, and opportunities for learning about each other. This recognition is intended to recognize a path built with continuity and attention to dialogue between communities.
Giuseppe Perale received the Silver Medal of Honor and the Knight's Cross of Merit, Second Class, in recognition of the scientific and diplomatic achievements he achieved in his role. This award highlights the importance of consular functions as a focal point for cooperation and strengthening relationships between institutions, research, and civil society.
In his speech, Mayor Michele Foletti recalled the historical and contemporary ties that unite Austria and Switzerland, highlighting shared values such as democracy, respect for individual freedoms, the promotion of research and innovation, and a focus on quality of life. This appeal is part of a tradition of cross-border collaboration that also involves Ticino, a region that has always been attentive to international dynamics.
The dignitaries present congratulated the award recipients and expressed their appreciation for their contributions. The initiative was seen as a sign of continuity in relations between the two countries, confirming Lugano's role as a meeting place and forum for institutions and diplomatic representations. The honors awarded represent, in this sense, both a personal recognition and a testament to the cooperation network built over the years.
The event at the Palazzo Civico is part of a continuing bilateral relationship through cultural, academic, and institutional activities, with the aim of further strengthening relations between Austria and Switzerland and fostering new opportunities for collaboration.
In photography, dleft:
- His Excellency Markus Josef Wuketich, Ambassador of Austria to Switzerland
- Michele Foletti, Mayor of Lugano
- Helga Martinelli, founder of the Austria-Club Ticino
- Giuseppe Perale, Honorary Consul of Austria in Lugano
