Rome, Italy – In a comprehensive address to the Italian Senate, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni outlined her country’s position ahead of the European Council meeting in Brussels on October 23-24. She emphasized that Italy enters the summit with “a political stability rare in its republican history” and “a renewed international leadership recognized by all.”
Middle East: Support for peace and reservations about Israel’s responses
Meloni expressed conditional optimism about the possibility of achieving a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. This came in light of the ongoing developments in the Gaza Strip, praising what she described as the “exceptional effort” made by US President Donald Trump in this regard.
Despite condemning Hamas’s violations, Meloni stressed that Israel’s response “is not an option that Italy agrees with.” She called for a balanced solution that guarantees the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people. She also stressed the need to disarm Hamas and prevent it from playing any role in the future of the Palestinian state. She considered this a prerequisite for Italy’s recognition of a Palestinian state.
Italy and its role in Gaza: Evacuation, education, and preparation for stabilization forces
Meloni announced that Italy is “at the forefront of the evacuation operations from Gaza” and was “the first to establish university corridors to educate future Palestinian leaders.” She described this initiative as “unique among Western countries.” She also expressed Rome’s willingness to participate in a potential international stabilization force after a ceasefire. She emphasized the importance of submitting the matter to the Italian parliament for approval.
Ukraine: Steadfast Support and Warning Against False Peace
On the Ukrainian issue, the Prime Minister affirmed that Italy’s support for Ukraine is “firm and resolute,” and aims to achieve “a just peace, not a peace imposed by repression.” She emphasized that “no decision on Ukraine can be made without Ukraine.” She reiterated that Italy does not plan to send troops to Ukrainian territory.
Meloni called for increased pressure on Moscow, noting the preparation of the 19th European package of sanctions. She emphasized that the sanctions are directed at the Russian regime, not the people.
European Defense: Flexible Financing and NATO Integration
Meloni called for more ambitious European defense funding. She proposed an “open debate” to make permanent the Stability and Growth Pact’s flexibility regarding defense spending. She emphasized the need for member states to remain the decision-makers in this process. She also emphasized the commitment to integrating European readiness with NATO.
Climate: No to unrealistic goals and ideological approaches
Regarding climate policy, Meloni emphasized that Italy supports reducing emissions. However, she rejects an “ideological approach” to implementing it. She warned that imposing unrealistic targets could “undermine the EU’s credibility” and “weaken its economic structure.”
Italy announced that it would not support a revision of the European Climate Law in its current form unless the approach is modified in three areas. These include the integration of renewable energy into a balanced, technologically supported system.
Housing and Immigrants: Priority and Social Justice
Meloni welcomed the inclusion of housing as a priority in European medium-term policies, stressing that it “touches on social justice.” She also noted Italy’s success in proposing innovative solutions to the migration issue, explaining that the “Mattei Plan for Africa” has become a model for European cooperation with the African continent.
Italy: Strong Economy and Growing Internal Confidence
The Prime Minister concluded her speech by emphasizing that Italy enters the European Council with “solid economic indicators.” Thanks to a recent positive rating from the DBRS agency, Italy has “returned to its rightful place among the big boys,” she said. She added that “a growing majority of Italians recognize the seriousness of the government’s work.” She emphasized, “As long as the people are on our side, we will hold our heads high.”
