Reem Al Hashemi receives the prestigious Italian “Marissa Bellisario” award

Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemi, Minister of State for International Cooperation, received the “Marissa Bellisario Award”, one of the highest Italian awards given in recognition of distinguished female leaders who have achieved exceptional achievements in the fields of diplomacy, government work, business, science, innovation, culture, and humanitarian work.

The award was presented to her during the ceremony of the thirty-eighth session of the “Marissa Bellisario” Award, which was held in the Italian capital, Rome, where Antonio Taiani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy, handed the award to her, thus making her among an elite group of international figures who left an influential mark in serving their countries and contributing to supporting the process of development and cooperation at the global level.

This honor, which is considered one of the most prominent European awards for appreciating women leaders, reflects the growing international appreciation for the Emirati model in empowering women and enhancing their presence in leadership and decision-making positions. It also embodies the position that the UAE has established as an effective international partner in supporting dialogue, strengthening partnerships, and achieving comprehensive and sustainable development.

The award ceremony was preceded by Reem Al Hashemi’s attendance at a reception held by His Excellency Sergio Mattarella, President of the Italian Republic, in honor of the winners of the 2026 Award, in a step that reflects the high status that the Award enjoys at the official, political and societal levels in the Italian Republic, and the appreciation it represents for personalities who have made a positive impact at the national and international levels.

This honor comes in light of the growing momentum witnessed in relations between the UAE and the Italian Republic, following the official visit made by His Excellency President Sergio Mattarella to the UAE in January 2026, which constituted a prominent milestone in the strategic partnership process between the two friendly countries.

Giving the award to Reem Al Hashemi reflects her long career and extensive contributions in the fields of diplomacy, international cooperation and strengthening global partnerships, including her role in consolidating bilateral relations between the UAE and the Italian Republic.

Throughout her career, she played a pivotal role in enhancing the UAE’s presence on the international scene, building strategic partnerships, and consolidating dialogue and cooperation between various countries and sectors.

It also contributed to the leadership and organization of Expo 2020 Dubai, which was a historic milestone in hosting and organizing major global events, and established new standards in this field, while the women’s pavilion during the event highlighted the pivotal role that women play in advancing development and achieving societal progress.

This honor also reflects the qualitative achievements made by Emirati women thanks to the wise vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, “may God rest his soul,” which continued under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State, “may God protect him,” who strengthened the process of empowering women and expanding their participation in various areas of national development.

The continuous efforts led by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, “Mother of the Emirates”, President of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, have also played a pivotal role in consolidating women’s status as an essential partner in the country’s comprehensive development process, which has enabled Emirati women today to assume leadership roles in the fields of diplomacy, government work, economics, science, technology and innovation, which contributes to enhancing the development process and consolidating international standing. For the UAE.

On this occasion, Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemi said: “I am pleased to receive the “Marissa Bellisario” Award, which celebrates women’s contributions in the fields of public service, leadership and international cooperation. I dedicate this honor to all Emirati women who, with their competence, ambition and sincerity, continue to contribute to the UAE’s renaissance and enhance its presence on the international scene. This recognition reflects the insightful vision of the UAE’s leadership, which believed in the role of women and enabled them to contribute effectively to building the future of the nation. It represents it ably at the global level, and it confirms the importance of dialogue, partnership and international cooperation in confronting common challenges and achieving sustainable development for all.”

She added: “I am pleased that this honor comes at a time when relations between the UAE and the friendly and strategic partner Italian Republic are witnessing further growth and prosperity. It also coincides with the Italian Republic’s celebration of the 80th anniversary of its founding, which adds special importance to this occasion and embodies the depth of the friendly relations and cooperation between the two countries. Based on solid foundations of mutual respect and friendship, the UAE and Italy continue to expand the horizons of cooperation in the fields of trade, investment, innovation, sustainability, culture and education, and to enhance communication between the two peoples, in a way that serves the interests of the two countries.” joint, and contributes to supporting regional stability and international security.”

The list of previous winners of the international award includes a number of prominent female figures, including Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah, wife of the Jordanian monarch, in recognition of her efforts in supporting education and youth empowerment, former US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, and the Iraqi Yazidi activist and Nobel Peace Prize winner Nadia Murad.

The selection of Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemi among this prestigious elite of global women leaders reflects appreciation for her career and contributions to supporting international action and making a positive impact at the global level.