Meeting Between President Roberta Metsola and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni
On Thursday, President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola engaged in a significant meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at Palazzo Chigi, focusing on pressing issues that Europe currently faces. During her appearance on RaiUno, Metsola elaborated on several key topics discussed with the Prime Minister, including Italy’s nomination for the European Commission, Raphaele Fitto, as well as the ongoing challenges related to the management of migratory flows.
In her remarks, Metsola emphasized, “I am the president of the entire European Parliament,” underscoring her commitment to collaboration among proactive forces within the EU. She continued, “I would like to work with these forces to provide concrete answers to our citizens, farmers, and industries. We should strive to emulate the spirit in which the EU was founded by leaders like De Gasperi and Spinelli. It is in this collaborative spirit that we must seek out majorities that build rather than destroy.”
Metsola on Fitto’s Candidature
Metsola expressed her longstanding confidence in Fitto, stating, “I have known Fitto for a long time, and I am certain he will excel in his role as commissioner.” She highlighted the significance of Italy receiving a vice-presidency within the commission, noting, “This is a crucial step, especially considering Italy’s status as a founding member of the European Union.”
‘On Immigration, We Must Move Forward Together’
One of the primary focuses of the discussion was immigration, with Metsola making it clear that collaborative solutions are essential. She reiterated that no nation—be it Malta or Italy—should bear the burden of migratory flows alone, as this challenge is fundamentally European in nature. To this end, Metsola revitalized the immigration and asylum pact that was voted on in Brussels last April.
- “We voted for it with the support of our Italian colleagues. It presents innovative solutions after years of stagnation, as it aims to protect our external borders and impose firm measures against those who cannot be identified.”
- “It guarantees safe and swift repatriation while demonstrating strength against human traffickers. We must always remember that we are discussing human lives, not mere statistics.”
Middle East and De-escalation Efforts
Metsola also highlighted the critical need for the EU to remain vocal in calling for de-escalation in the Middle East, condemning the influence of Iran, advocating for the release of hostages, and continuing to provide humanitarian aid. Regarding anti-Semitism, she asserted, “If you are anti-Semitic, you are fundamentally against Europe.” She emphasized the importance of learning from historical lessons to effectively confront contemporary challenges. Metsola concluded by stating, “The current situation in the Middle East is nothing short of a catastrophe.”