Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, took a notable step this week. The discussion centered on post-pandemic recovery funds for Italy and the country’s stance on European immigration policy, which Rome has criticized and says should be renegotiated. The encounter, described by Rome as a perfect opportunity to exchange positions, brought both topics to the forefront during a meeting in the Italian capital that lasted just over an hour. The dates of February 9 and 10 were noted by the Italian government as the period for talks on economic policy and immigration at the Extraordinary Council of Europe meetings.
On the Italian side, the government reaffirmed its commitment to the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, the document guiding post-pandemic aid from Brussels. Italy stands to receive substantial funds and loans from the European Union, contingent on reforms aimed at strengthening socioeconomic structures and governance. The arrangement highlights a broader European strategy to restore growth and resilience after the pandemic shock.
Foreign policy
In this context, Rome expressed satisfaction with the planned EU-NATO joint declaration to be signed in Brussels, signaling a shared view on security and defense cooperation. Both sides underlined a common ground on regional and global challenges, including the situation in Brazil, and the need for coordinated EU actions.
Von der Leyen emphasized that the topics discussed at the meeting reflect the core concerns facing Europe. The conversation touched on the proposed European migration and asylum framework, the competitiveness of European industry, and energy security as priorities for the bloc. The dialogue underscored a shared commitment to addressing these issues within the European policy agenda.
Von der Leyen also expressed appreciation for the opportunity to engage with Giorgia Meloni and noted the value of ongoing dialogue between European leadership and member states after her appointment as Italy’s prime minister. The exchange set the stage for further practical discussions and collaboration on strategic priorities.
Details of the conversation were scarce, but one major topic that attracted close attention from Rome concerns immigration policy. While Sweden holds the rotating EU presidency, it has limited room for immediate progress on this issue, underscoring the need for continued negotiation and alignment among member states.
With center left
The visit to Rome by von der Leyen did not solely focus on talks with the governing coalition. Ahead of their meeting, the EU official met with Enrico Letta, leader of the Democratic Party, and Romano Prodi, a former European Commission president and a member of the same party. The occasion was the launch of a book commemorating David Sassoli, the former president of the European Parliament who passed away recently. The gathering highlighted a broader push to strengthen European academic and political collaborations.
Prodi spoke about the high value of thoughtful participation in European debates and expressed hope for continued dialogue on projects such as uniting universities around the Mediterranean. The remarks pointed to a long-term vision that connects higher education with regional integration and policy influence across Europe.