(19 January 2016) Cisco – one of the leading global network equipment providers – has announced a series of strategic investments in Italy over the next three years for a total value of $100 million. The project was announced after today’s meeting between Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, the Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins and the Cisco Italy CEO Agostino Santoni. From today, “Cisco will adopt, in line with the Italian government’s growing commitment to digitization, a two-pronged approach: the development of digital skills and awareness raising regarding the opportunities offered by digital technology; and support to innovative start-ups in Italy,” announced the group in a statement. “Italy is increasingly open to international influences, and thus attractive in terms of international investment – commented Prime Minister Matteo Renzi on Facebook – Today, large global companies have decided to bet on our country, bet on the future.” The Prime Minister describes Cisco as “one of the two giants I mentioned in my latest Enews that look towards Italy as a solid country that encourages those who want to create opportunities, enterprise, work, and innovation. The digitization process should concern training, start-ups, and research, as well as those sectors of excellence that are a symbol of Italian quality around the world. Because this is the best answer to those who fear a new Italian leadership, and would prefer us weak and marginal in world affairs. But Italy is back, stronger and more ambitious than ever. There is much work to be done still, but we should be proud of what has been achieved so far.” (Red)
