Migrants and reforms. Scholz explains what unites and what divides Italy and Germany

“Relations between Italy and Germany are close and very solid: this applies not only to our countries and our companies, but also to cooperation with the Italian government”. Those of the German Chancellor are words of confidence, Olaf Scholzvisiting Italy today to meet the Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and President Mattarella: interviewed by Corriere della Sera, Scholz traces a picture based on the synergy between Italy and Germany, which touches on all the decisive points of European policies. A declaration of intent that will probably result in a formal deed called this autumn “Action Pact”divided into five different strategic fields.

Before then, however, there were already many dossiers in which convergence between the two countries was required. Starting with immigration, for which the chancellor states that “Italy and the other countries cannot be left alone: we need accountability and consistency between EU member states as well as compliance with standards for those seeking protection”.

Then there is the reform chapter which calls into question, in addition to Italy and Germany, Community policy as a whole. “We have to strengthen the framework conditions for investment in Europe,” says Scholz. In general, the goal for the EU will be “make state aid legislation even more agile and flexible over timeso investors know early on what help they can expect.”

From the Pnrr to raw materials, according to the chancellor, Europe’s task will then be “accelerate administrative and approval procedures“. Also because the specter of dependence on China looms, which however “cannot be excluded from global trade”, according to the chancellor. Precisely to encourage decision-making by the Union, there is talk of extending the majority vote to foreign policy and defense: on this, Scholz states that “we need more qualified majority Council decisions in foreign and fiscal policy“. And he promises that he will continue “to do the work of persuasion”.

The other big challenge is posed by governance economy, with the new Stability Pact presented in Brussels a few weeks ago. for Scholz”the important thing is that all citizens have the certainty that their state will continue to be able to act and show solidarity even in times of crisis“. Consequently, “it is about ensuring growth, debt sustainability and investment, so that the transformation of our national economies is successful”.

Finally, a final chapter is reserved for the war in Ukraine. “We must therefore prepare ourselves to have to help Ukraine for a long time to come”, Scholz warned. Which assures: “We will support Kyiv in achieving a just and lasting peace and in its path to EU membership“.