«The Republic, in countless trials and, most recently, during the pandemic, has confirmed feelings of unity and cohesion by clinging to constitutional values. The Constitution, the Italian anthem and the flag are the references that guide us in the common commitment to consolidate an Italy founded on peace, freedom and human rights". Thus the President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella , in a message on the occasion of the anniversary of National Unity, of the Constitution, of the Anthem and of the Flag which is celebrated today in Italy .

«162 years ago - continues the Head of State - under the Tricolor flag, with the popular plebiscites, sovereignty and will were expressed which, through the work of the Risorgimento, had led to the constitution of the Italian state. The first thought goes to the generations who have accompanied this milestone , to those who, with their work, have contributed to the birth and growth of our country , promoting those values of civil coexistence, those ideals of freedom and democracy , peace and participation to the rule of law and to the international community, which have found consecration in our Constitution".

"We live today - adds Mattarella - with the conflict unleashed by the Russian Federation on Ukrainian territory, an open threat to these values which requires us to give a firm unified response within the common European and Atlantic identity , so that the fighting is put to an end and a lasting peace settlement.

«The Republic - concludes Mattarella - in countless trials and, most recently, during the pandemic, has confirmed feelings of unity and cohesion by clinging to constitutional values. The same ones who, by inspiring our society, guarantee the moral resources necessary to face the complex challenges that the contemporary world puts before us. The Constitution, the Italian anthem and the flag are the references that guide us in the common commitment to consolidate ".