Esteri

Esteri is the Italian term for affairs relating to foreign countries and international relations. In everyday use it denotes matters outside a nation’s borders, as opposed to domestic or internal affairs (affari interni). In governmental language, esteri is often used to refer to foreign policy, diplomacy, and the conduct of international relations.

In Italy, the primary institution dealing with esteri is the Ministero degli Affari Esteri e della Cooperazione Internazionale (MAECI). The ministry is headed by the Ministro degli Affari Esteri. Its responsibilities include formulating and implementing foreign policy, representing Italy in international forums, negotiating treaties, protecting Italian citizens abroad, and overseeing Italy’s network of embassies and consulates. It also promotes international cooperation, cultural diplomacy, and economic diplomacy, within the framework of Italy’s participation in international organizations and alliances.

Usage and terminology around esteri extend to various official and public contexts. The term appears in phrases such as Affari Esteri or Relazioni Estere and is commonly contrasted with affari interni (domestic affairs). In modern Italian, esteri can refer broadly to the field of international relations, a government policy area, or the body of diplomacy conducted by a state. The concept encompasses bilateral and multilateral diplomacy, international cooperation, and Italy’s external relations with entities like the European Union, the United Nations, and other states.