France and Italy at breaking point. Paris has decided to recall the French ambassador in Rome, Christian Masset, due to the "unprecedented attacks by the Italian government".
In a very harsh note, the Quai d'Orsay claims that never since the "end of the Second World War" has Italy behaved in this way towards the French allies, especially by carrying out "baseless" attacks and making "outrageous statements" . “Disagreeing is one thing, exploiting the relationship for electoral purposes is another“adds the French Foreign Ministry.
Difficult words to read in a "diplomatic" statement, especially if addressed to an allied democracy. It is no coincidence that the Quai d'Orsay spokesperson begins by recalling the old friendship between France and Italy: “France and Italy are united by a common history. They built Europe together and worked for peace. France is deeply attached to this friendly relationship which fosters cooperation in all sectors and a closeness between our peoples. Franco-Italian friendship is more than ever indispensable for accepting the challenges that are ours in the XNUMXst century”.
However, tension between the two countries has skyrocketed. For weeks governments are engaged in a constant back and forth which covers a variety of issues. From the French attacks against the Italian government for the management of migrants and ports to the (unfounded) accusations of the Di Maio-Di Battista duo on the so-called colonial franc up to the attempted (rejected) approach of the 5 Star Movement to the Yellow Vests. Without forgetting the Tav dossier, with the possible blockade promised by Minister Toninelli which would also have repercussions on France (which has already carried out its part of the work).
"The latest interference is a further and unacceptable provocation, violate the respect due to the democratic election made by a friendly and allied people and the respect that democratic and freely elected governments owe each other”, the statement continues.
For the Italian Government, the first response comes from the Deputy Prime Minister, Matteo Salvini: “We don't want to quarrel with anyone, we are not interested in controversies: we are real people and we defend the interests of Italians. Very willing to meet President Macron and the French government, sit down at a table and address, as far as my skills are concerned, three fundamental issues. Stop with the rejections, stop with the Italian terrorists in France and stop damaging our commuter workers who are literally harassed every day at the French borders by checks that last for hours".
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The President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, also intervened on the matter, asking to "defend and preserve the friendship with France". The Head of State also expressed "great concern about the situation" and asked the government to "immediately restore the climate of confidence".
