Having landed in India at the end of July, Ambassador-Designate of Italy to India and Nepal Antonio Bartoli is navigating the streets of his new home, New Delhi, and discovering new things — Humayun’s Tomb, Lodhi Gardens and the city’s colourful markets.
Bartoli was a scholar at the Corriere della Sera School of Journalism and studied at the LSE Summer School, where he was awarded a Master’s degree in International Relations at Sciences Po after presenting a thesis on ‘asymmetric warfare’.
Before entering the diplomatic career, he worked as a professional journalist from 1991 to 1997. A member of the Order of Journalists and the Parliamentary Press Association, he covered politics and economics.
In 2012, he worked at the US State Department for a year, handling the economic dossiers of the Middle East and North Africa.
As Ambassador in Tbilisi (2014-2019), he promoted political dialogue (the very first visit of the President of the Italian Republic to Georgia), business and trade (in particular in infrastructure, energy and hospitality segments), scientific and cultural cooperation (several exhibitions from Roman mosaics to contemporary art, including focuses on Michelangelo, Bernini and De Chirico; tenfold increase in the number of students learning Italian language.
He is married to Ester with whom he has five daughters.
Bartoli spoke to The Indian Express as part of a series of interviews with Ambassadors about Delhi — their home.
Edited excerpts:
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What is the one place in the city you love visiting often?
Since arriving in New Delhi, I’ve delved into this vibrant city’s unique (and sometimes hidden) beauty with enthusiasm and curiosity. I’ve already had the chance to visit a certain number of historical sites. My favourite is Humayun’s Tomb; I fell in love with its wonderful gardens and architectural majesty.
Three things that stood out in Delhi during your stay here?
Well, first of all, I still consider myself new to Delhi and the country at large. Not only for the limited time I’ve been here, but above all for the remarkable amount of art, culture, and history India can boast. An incredible heritage that would probably make me “new to India” even at the end of my stay.
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However, if I have to choose today, here’s my choice. The parks, such as Lodhi Gardens or Nehru Park. These and other green areas are stunning, as you get the chance to appreciate nature and history together, with a simple walk.
Second, street food. My favourite is the samosa.
Last but not least, the markets: colourful, melting pot of cultures and traditions. They remind me of the famous and crowded markets of Naples or Palermo. Perfect places to better understand people, their lives, tastes, and habits.
Does pollution in Delhi bother you? How do you and your family deal with it?
We can simply protect ourselves indoors with air purifiers and masks while going outdoors. I usually spend the entire day outdoors for meetings and events, so exposure to the polluted air is definitely not a joke. But the issue is not how we deal with it, but what should we do to avoid dealing with it.
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Is there anything that you would suggest Delhi’s administrators work on to make this city a better place?
I would lie if I were not saying that pollution is a big issue here. A huge one. I understand this is a major challenge that the government and all authorities are seriously addressing. However, in India just as in Italy, I believe everyone can be the driver of change.
Favourite food in Delhi?
As I consider myself a food lover and an open-minded food traveller, Delhi is a never-ending daily discovery. I love the wide array of regional cuisines. I am still discovering many of them and I am keen on understating the best use of spices. With moderation, though.
I love simple food. Dal and naan are my favourites.
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How is Delhi different from other major capitals or cities you have served in?
Everything. There is no place in this world that can be considered a replica of others. And this is the beauty of being a diplomat. You live your life discovering new and different cultures, values, traditions, much of the time far from your past but, perhaps, surprisingly and unexpectedly so close to your heart.
Is there anything that you or your family would miss once you say goodbye to this city?
I am sure many. Starting from the warmth and hospitality of the people. But it’s too early to say goodbye. We will enjoy our life in Delhi. We already are. We were, for example, stunned by the beauty of Purana Qila.
Memories that you think will stay with you always?
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There is no single episode. But a precise feeling: of feeling at home, notwithstanding the diversity and, often, the striking inequalities. In the natural smile of people, in the immediate empathy, in the importance of friendship and family, we — Indians and Italians — are really very similar.
If you have to introduce Delhi to someone back home, what will you tell them?
I would describe Delhi as an unforgettable — overwhelming — medley of cultures and traditions, languages and cuisines. A challenging and yet fascinating experience, capable of opening your heart and conquering your soul. Incredible Delhi. Or, in Khushwant Singh’s words, “Delhi is not just a city, it’s an emotion.”
