An interview with Consul of Italy Sarah Eti Castellani.
From the pearl of the Empire to the capital of the Empire - an interview with Consul of Italy Sarah Eti Castellani.
In your role as First Secretary of the Italian Embassy in India, what was your lasting impression of your time in office?
It was an important experience for four years in a country full of contrasts, but undergoing a major phase of economic growth.
What experiences have you learnt from you role in India to benefit your new position in the United Kingdom?
Many fond memories of the people I met there. I had the good fortune to travel extensively in the country, and experiencing first hand the cultural and religious diversity, the heart and soul of India. A country of many contrasts, but which remains united.
So could India serve as an example?
Despite being an emerging power, there is a segment of the population living below $ 2 per day. Nonetheless the country remains optimistic, and despite the cultural diversity, each ethnic group still remains respectful of the others. It is an optimism that perhaps is not always present in Europe.
Would you say therefore that Indian citizens have confidence in themselves?
Yes, faith in their existence in spite of everything.
Given that London is Europe’s most important multi-ethnic capital, with the largest Indian community living outside India, you should feel at home here.
There are several similarities between the two countries. In fact, the Indian ruling class was educated in the UK, exporting to India a certain mentality, including bureaucratic procedures that are very British. Similarly, class division exists in both cultures.
British settlers used to say that the most beautiful Indian landscape was the one seen from the stern of the boat, leaving the country to return home to Britain, suggesting, therefore, a certain distance with the local people and local culture.
I have good memories of India, a rich culture of many landscapes - I had a wonderful experience there.
Who are the Italians living in India? How many are they?
There are about a thousand Italian nationals living in the sub-continent - most are religious people who live in the south of the country. Presently, there are also several entrepreneurs from multi-national companies who have moved to India.
Consul of Italy in London, which is your most important objective for 2011?
If you consider that the Italians resident in India registered with AIRE are 1000, and that in the district of London there are 190, 000, my main objective will focus on the improvement of the Consul service to users, by employing new technologies.
So users will be able to renew their passport in a day?
Not really, but it will be enough to come to the consulate only once, that is, when clearance from the municipality is received. Users will be able to make an appointment directly on-line. We are aware of how difficult it is to travel around London, especially when one is busy at work. So, my greatest commitment is to streamline service users’ procedures.
The use of new technology can be such that human contact is lost. In what way will the Consul remain in touch with the Italians in London?
Establishing contact with the new generation of migrants is another objective of mine. In actual fact, I have already met up with several Italian associations’ representatives and alumni associations of Italians living in the United Kingdom. I found this to be a very interesting experience, a framework of great dynamism. There are young Italians who are making that professional leap that will distinguish them in the workplace. These are people who often do not even know where the Consulate is.
Many Italians living in London do not have contact with other Italians in the capital, why?
Understandably, there are Italians that seek a ‘full-immersion’ in the British experience, so perhaps it makes no sense for them to be practicing the very same culture left behind in the old country - otherwise what’s the point of moving to another country? It must be said that many young people leave Italy with disappointment in their hearts, often being too controversial. I understand their reasons to a certain degree, but I believe that by turning their backs in this way that they also miss out on other opportunities. For example, being part of an Italian association in London may provide one with a sense of belonging.
How do Londoners see the Italians?
When I arrived in London, I immediately noticed how Italy was in fashion, how the “Made in Italy” is trendy, and how Italians are appreciated.
What is your message for young people looking for affirmation?
I have great admiration for those who have left their families to live in a foreign capital in order to build their career. I hope that young people may consider the Consulate as a point of reference.
