The government of Giorgia Meloni has filed a new complaint with the European Union, criticizing the recently elected Italian ambassador to the Middle East. Former Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio has not been considered a candidate for the Italian government, according to comments from the current foreign minister Antonio Tajani on Sunday.
Following reports in the Italian press about Josep Borrell, the EU High Representative for Foreign Policy, selecting Di Maio for the post, the Italian administration reacted quickly. The decision has not yet received formal approval from the European Commission.
According to sources, the events occurred on Friday when Borrell informed representatives of EU member states that Di Maio meets the profile and possesses the political and international experience necessary for the role, making him the most suitable candidate. This assessment angered several government officials and prompted a response from Italy and Tajani in particular.
About the legitimacy of Borrell’s decision, Tajani stated that Borrell acts within his mandate as the EU High Representative. He added that Di Maio was chosen by former Prime Minister Mario Draghi and is not the government’s candidate.
Former Leader of the Five Star Movement
Within Giorgia Meloni’s government, several voices have weighed in since Di Maio’s name appeared months ago as a potential appointee for the post. The debate has largely reflected domestic political tensions rather than a straightforward policy disagreement.
Di Maio has long been one of the most prominent critics of Italy’s current right-wing allies. He helped found the Five Star Movement and led the party for three years, from 2017 to 2020, before stepping away last year. His decision to leave parliament in the most recent elections drew significant attention and fueled ongoing political chatter.
The response from other political camps has been sharp. Matteo Salvini of the far-right League commented that the Italian people voted for a center-right government and did not elect the left or fringe groups. He described the Brussels decision as a mistake and an insult to Italy, according to reports from the Italian newspaper La Repubblica, which cited league sources as expressing strong discontent.
As the controversy unfolds, observers note that the selection process for a senior diplomatic post in Europe often sits at the intersection of national politics, international experience, and the broader strategic alignment sought by Brussels. The current dialogue underscores how prime ministers and foreign ministers balance internal party dynamics with the EU’s expectations for seasoned diplomatic leadership. The ongoing dispute also highlights the delicate handling required when a candidate with a polarizing profile is placed in contention for a critical regional posting.
In public statements, government officials emphasize the importance of a credible and broadly acceptable nominee who can advance Italy’s diplomatic interests at a time of regional volatility. Critics, however, warn against reading too much into the choice before an official confirmation and point to domestic policy concerns that continue to influence the conversation about Italy’s representation abroad. The situation remains fluid as European institutions review the proposal and engage in consultations with member states.
Notes from current Italian political circles indicate that the lines of debate are unlikely to settle quickly. The interplay between national party loyalties, the evolving role of Italian diplomacy in the Middle East, and Brussels’ criteria for senior postings will keep this issue in the spotlight for the foreseeable future. The broader question remains how Italy will present a united front on foreign policy while managing internal divisions that permeate the government and its coalition partners.
Source attribution: discussions reflect reporting from major Italian outlets and EU briefings.