Rome, Italy.- President Luis Abinader announced that the Dominican Republic will allocate funds starting in January 2027 to support the creation of a Dominican House of Culture in Italy, aimed at promoting Dominican traditions and strengthening ties with the diaspora.
The announcement was made during a meeting with Dominican community representatives in Italy, attended by First Lady Raquel Arbaje. Abinader said the Presidency will provide a donation to cover the rental and operation of a space, while Dominican Ambassador to Italy Rafael Antonio Lantigua will coordinate the preparatory work with community representatives, including the selection of the location.
The cultural center is expected to promote Dominican art, traditions and customs, particularly among children and young people born or raised in Italy. Diaspora representatives proposed activities including folkloric groups, carnival costume and instrument workshops, summer camps, and programs focused on Dominican history and national symbols.
They also called for greater support for entrepreneurs, improved opportunities for Dominican professionals through academic degree recognition, and assistance with pensions, employment and communication with Dominican authorities.
Abinader said his administration would evaluate the proposals and highlighted the role of the Institute of Dominicans Abroad (INDEX) in supporting Dominicans living overseas.
The president also recognized the diaspora’s contribution to the Dominican economy through remittances, which he said support consumption, construction and the country’s balance of payments. He noted that the Dominican Republic expects to receive about 12.5 million visitors in 2026 and highlighted progress in reducing poverty and undernourishment.
Ambassador Lantigua praised Abinader’s engagement with the Dominican diaspora, particularly his interest in issues involving education, employment and driver’s licenses. He said the meeting provided an opportunity to strengthen ties between the government and Dominicans in Italy while promoting Dominican culture and identity abroad.