On April 15, 2025, Bari hosted the inaugural session of the General Council of Apulians in the World (CGPM), a symbolic and institutional event that originated in December 2000. The CGPM is a body legally recognized by the Regional Law “Interventions in favor of Apulians in the World” and represents the embrace between Puglia and its international diaspora. A moment full of significance that saw representatives of Apulian communities from every corner of the globe converge in the Apulian capital.
The initiative, promoted by the Puglia Region, was organized by Incoming Puglia with the collaboration of Travelcafè of Bari. These are entities that care about the valorization of the Apulian territory and work in synergy to bring tourists and travelers from all over the world to our splendid region, enhancing its culture and territory. The purpose of the event was to consolidate relations with Apulians residing abroad, recognizing and valuing their cultural, economic, and social contributions. The General Council presents itself not only as an advisory body, but above all as a fundamental link between the history, present, and future of Puglia in the global context. The participation of the councilors of the General Council of Apulians in the World enriched the work of the session, with stories, experiences, and concrete proposals, demonstrating the commitment and attachment of many Apulians in valorizing their homeland wherever they may be. During the session, fundamental themes were addressed such as the valorization of young people abroad, roots tourism, and policies for return and integration. In the coming months, the Council will work to offer the Puglia Region an ever broader and more inclusive perspective, able to respond to the needs and aspirations of Apulians residing abroad.
Puglia keeps the bond with its emigrants alive through concrete initiatives like this, which represent a way to affirm that regional identity transcends all borders and that shared memory can be transformed into a project for the future.
