The Italian government, which has been the primary source of funding for ICTP since the Centre's inception in 1964, has announced that it will increase its annual contribution to ICTP from 26 billion lire (US$13 million) to 36 billion lire (US$18 million), beginning this year. On behalf of the Centre, ICTP Director Miguel Virasoro has expressed his gratitude to the Italian government for its vision, generosity and sustained commitment to the Centre's goals. The additional funds will be used to deepen and expand ICTP research and training activities. Over the past 36 years, more than 75,000 scientists, a majority from the developing world, have participated in ICTP workshops, conferences, schools and seminars.