«Berlusconi chose me and I will not disappoint him. Now loyal support to our government»- Corriere.it

«I am proud and enthusiastic to return to the helm of the Forza Italia parliamentary group in the Chamber, a cohesive group, with important skills that I intend to make the most of. Especially in view of the forthcoming electoral, administrative and European rounds». For a few minutes now, Paolo Barelli has been the group leader of FI again. After an earthquake that changed the balance within Silvio Berlusconi’s party.

What does his election mean? Out with the Ronzulliani, in with the troops close to Tajani?

«President Berlusconi has a clear understanding of teamwork even before implementing it, he knows how to make the best use of every single resource, putting it in the right place, at the right time. He evidently saw, through me, the possibility of winning 2-0 and why not, even 3-0. He is not satisfied with the result already achieved. And I won’t let him down.”

Are you afraid that it might displease a part of the party?

«The party recognizes itself entirely in a single leader, Berlusconi, and the only political line is his. Personal orientations do not condition the path».

Will your role be liaison with the Azzurri ministers?

«Collaboration with ministers is essential and strategic. The stronger the link between Parliament and the government is, the more effective our political action will be”.

In the past he had not been confirmed as group leader. Was he hurt?

“I’ve always been in the team, first as team leader, when I wasn’t and now that I’m back, because evidently our president thinks I’m the right person in the right place”.

Did you have a discussion with the outgoing Alessandro Cattaneo in these hours?

“Certain. Cattaneo was one of my deputies and it was I who encouraged him in his work as a parliamentarian and as head of departments. Therefore, we will continue to collaborate ».

Will there be a split?

“For what reason? For a decision by Berlusconi who aims to renew the party to be ready for new challenges? I do not think so”.

Licia Ronzulli says she is «amazed by ways and times». How does she respond?

“I haven’t spoken to Licia Ronzulli, but no one knows better than her that the president decides in total autonomy, even if he listens to everyone, and when he decides he wants to proceed immediately, in the interests of FI and the country”.

Now what will happen?

“The first thing to do is to enhance the identity of FI and the loyal support to the center-right government of which our party is the pillar”.

No single party with Giorgia Meloni?

“These will be choices that the centre-right leaders will have to evaluate, but one thing is certain: if we want an ‘Italian-style centre-right’ at the helm of Europe, FI is ready and indispensable for the challenge”.