An international memorandum of understanding to unite the planet's longest-living lands in a global development strategy. In Tortolì, in the Symposion/La Bitta conference room, the first stone was laid for The Longevity Experience project, which brings together Sardinia, Okinawa in Japan, Nicoja in Costa Rica, and Ikaria in Greece. The program was officially signed by Franco Cuccureddu, Councilor for Tourism for the Sardinia Region, Hajime Oshiro, Deputy Governor of Okinawa Prefecture, and Carlos Armando Marinez Arias, Mayor of Nicoja, Costa Rica.
The goal is to build a coherent, recognizable image of the longevity regions through the joint and coordinated participation of the blue zones in tourism fairs, events, and initiatives, as well as wellness and territorial promotion initiatives, and through communication initiatives, such as a dedicated website, aimed at strengthening the project's international visibility.
The speeches by foreign guests Hiroshi Toyama, member of the Blue Zone Research Council for Japan, Kyriaki Spanou and Angeliki Douka, wellness and longevity coaches from Ikaria, and Marinez Aria for Nicoja, were applauded by an attentive audience.
The conference, brilliantly directed by Barbara Serra, then included a scientific component, with presentations by Francesco Cucca, professor of medical genetics and Principal Investigator of ProGenia; Andrea Fabbo, geriatrician and general director of the Ogliastra Local Health Authority; oncologist Roberto Pili, president of the Global Longevity Community; and Raffaele Sestu, a doctor for centenarians. "The goal is not to market tourist packages," Cuccureddu said, "but to create an ideal terrain for what we call sanctuaries of life."