Tajani: “Solid economy and stable government: Italy matters in the EU”

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani, the European Commission about to be set up has important choices to make. What is Italy's role?

"It's a leading role for several reasons".

First things first…

"First of all: The credibility of Italy lies in a stable government. Second: Italy is strongly anchored to the tradition of European popularism. Forza Italia is a crucial and unavoidable component of the ruling coalition. It is historically linked to the large family of the European People's Party, who represent the majority in Strasbourg. This is a guarantee of credibility and reliability".

This is happening at a time when both France and Germany are tarnished in terms of political stability and economic performance…

"Not only that. The G7, held in Puglia and Capri last June and April, demonstrated the key role that Italy plays when it comes to important matters such as Ukraine, the Middle East, Africa, the Balkans. This is not a casual as it is the result of intense diplomatic work, consolidated relations, and political credibility that is recognised at all levels. It is no coincidence that we have strengthened our representative offices in Brussels: it was one of the first deed I adopted as a Minister".

The Fitto knot has been resolved, he will be commissioner. But what about his role and powers?

"Fitto, who I have always supported, was the best choice possible: he is valued in Europe and is already familiar with the procedural and decision-making mechanisms well. The constant support of authoritative members of the EPP represent a guarantee for Italy and for Fitto himself. The entire Forza Italia group in Brussels, led by Fulvio Martusciello, will support the work of Fitto and the Commission. In my opinion, having an European delegation leader from Naples, Southern Italy shall be considered significant. The South of our Country demands more attention, but it is also willing to offer its commitment to Italy and Europe".

Did the Meloni-Weber one-on-one meeting, through his good offices, unblock the game?

"We worked with a common goal, there was teamwork between Meloni, Weber, Metsola, von der Leyen. Fitto will be the Executive VP with leading delegations as befits the representative of an important country like Italy, among the founders of the Union. And I must also add that Europe will benefit from the commitment and action of a decisive member like Italy, which can make its contribution European Union's interest".

With Fitto in Europe, is the government in Rome weaker?

"No, it is not. Fitto in Europe strengthens Italy. There will be time to rebalance the structure of the national government: we will find the best solutions, especially with regard to the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP)".

What are Italy's credentials at the launch of the EU commission?

"A constant economic development index: employment is growing, we are the world's fourth export power, the second largest manufacturer in the continent, we have a solid and stable banking system, a fabric of four million small and medium-sized enterprises. Today the country can attract European investment and is growing thanks to the South".

Finally a chance to attach the Italian Mezzogiorno to the European locomotive?

"From exports to GDP, with an increase in active companies of 11%, the Italian Mezzogiorno represents a pole of constant development and growth. A strong Europe needs not only France and Germany but also a competitive Italy, but this will be possible only if the South of Italy runs faster than the others. Moreover, the EPP Convention in Naples on 24-27 September is a clear recognition of Forza Italia's role, but also a sign of broad consideration for Italy, the Mezzogiorno and Naples".

How should this growth process be supported?

"The next budget will provide for measures aimed intended for business development, families, young people, and women's employment.

But Europe also expects many reforms from Italy. Will the country be able to respond?

"The public administration reform initiated by Zangrillo aims to bring efficiency, meritocracy, and reduce bureaucracy. Additionally, we need to reform our citizenship rules and address the slowness of the justice system, particularly in the civil sector, which currently costs us almost 3 points of GDP. As Forza Italia, we are also committed to promoting sustainable green policies, as we have previously opposed fundamentalist attitudes, such as in the packaging case. Our goal is to establish a unified European industrial policy".

Public link

Please use the above public link if you want to share this noodl on another website.