Chancellor Angela Merkel extends a hand to Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte: “Italy is one of the countries that welcomes and has welcomed many migrants“, we intend to “cooperate very closely” on this issue. “Germany is also very directly affected”, so it is in everyone's interest. These are the words of the German leader during the press conference with the Italian premier.
"The stakes for Europe are very high, the issues of immigration and economic governance of the EU can and must be an opportunity to achieve a stronger and more equitable Europe that can respond to the primary needs of citizens" , said the tenant of Palazzo Chigi who once again reaffirmed our country's position: “The European Union must change its approach. Italy cannot continue to deal with migrants alone. We need adequate solidarity mechanisms” from the EU, he added.
From Berlin, Conte issues a warning: for the migrant emergency "European solutions are needed, without triggering bilateral dynamics that risk constituting the end of Schengen".
"Our borders are the European ones - added the Italian premier - Italy cannot continue to act alone" on migrants. "Strengthening Frontex and protecting the external borders: let's face the problems head on" was Merkel's response. She who she adds: "At Italy's request, we also want to help with our solidarity, solidarity in Europe is something that Germany welcomes with open arms".
Conte then also spoke of the policies that the new M5s-Lega government intends to implement: "The crucial issue of my government is the fight against poverty and basic income, the reform of employment centres, which are part of a series of structural reforms Personally, as a government official, I cannot remain indifferent to certain data: last year 2,7 million Italians resorted to soup kitchens and food parcels. Our proposal on basic income goes in this direction and Europe is essential. From Germany we can take an example of the tools to use”.
Words "collected" immediately by the chancellor, Angela Merkel. “We know that Italy has problems with youth unemployment – she replied to the Chancellor – it is important to collaborate on this too. We can make suggestions based on the experience with German unification. Our Ministers of Labor have already met”.
