Abu dhabi: Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, has been awarded the Marisa Bellisario Award, one of Italy's highest distinctions recognizing outstanding women leaders who have demonstrated extraordinary achievement across diplomacy, government, business, science, innovation, culture, and humanitarian action.
According to Emirates News Agency, the award was presented to Reem Al Hashimy by Antonio Tajani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Italian Republic, at the 38th edition of the Marisa Bellisario Award ceremony in Rome, Italy. The award places Al Hashimy among an exceptional group of internationally influential leaders whose efforts have had a transformative impact on their countries and the wider world.
The Marisa Bellisario Award, as one of Europe's most respected recognitions of women's leadership, reflects growing international recognition of the UAE's model for empowering women in leadership and decision-making. It also highlights the country's commitment to fostering dialogue, partnership, and inclusive and sustainable development on the global stage.
Ahead of the ceremony, Reem Al Hashimy attended a reception hosted by Sergio Mattarella, President of the Italian Republic, in honor of the 2026 award recipients. The reception underscored the high standing of the Marisa Bellisario Award within Italy's institutional, political, and public spheres, as well as the recognition it bestows on those who have made a positive impact both nationally and internationally.
The recognition also comes at a time of growing momentum in UAE-Italy relations, following the State Visit of President Sergio Mattarella to the UAE in January 2026, which marked a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between the two countries.
This honor reflects Al Hashimy's distinguished record and her longstanding contributions to diplomacy, international cooperation, and the advancement of global partnerships, including her role in strengthening relations between the UAE and the Italian Republic. Throughout her career, Reem Al Hashimy has played a central role in strengthening the UAE's international engagement, fostering strategic partnerships, and advancing dialogue and cooperation across regions and sectors.
Reem Al Hashimy also played a leading role in the organization and delivery of Expo 2020 Dubai, which marked a historic milestone in hosting global mega-events and set new standards for the industry. The Women's Pavilion at Expo further highlighted the pivotal role women play in driving development and advancing societal progress.
The award also highlights the progress achieved by Emirati women under the vision of the UAE's founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. This legacy continues under the leadership of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who has further strengthened women's roles across all fields of national development.
A central pillar of this progress has been the work of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the 'Mother of the Nation', whose sustained efforts have been instrumental in advancing women as key partners in the UAE's development journey. As a result, Emirati women today play leading roles across diplomacy, government, business, science, technology, and innovation, contributing significantly to the country's development and international standing.
On the occasion, Al Hashimy expressed her privilege in receiving the Marisa Bellisario Award, a distinction that celebrates the contributions of women to public service, leadership, and international cooperation. She dedicated the recognition to the many Emirati women whose talent, ambition, and dedication continue to contribute to the UAE's development and its global engagement.
She highlighted the growing relations between the UAE and Italy, a partnership marked by shared commitment to regional stability and international security. This recognition coincides with Italy's 80th anniversary of the founding of the Italian Republic, adding significance to the milestone in the enduring friendship between the UAE and Italy.
Previous recipients of the International Award include Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah of Jordan, former United States Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, and Nobel Peace Prize laureates Aung San Suu Kyi and Nadia Murad. Al Hashimy's selection among such a distinguished group of global women leaders reflects recognition of her outstanding career and contributions to advancing international cooperation.