Italy Reaffirms Alliance with US Amidst Diplomatic Tensions
Rome, April 15 – Italian Minister Antonio Tajani has strongly reiterated Italy’s unwavering commitment to its strategic alliance with the United States, following critical comments made by former US President Donald Trump. Tajani emphasized that Italy views the US as a crucial partner, essential for political, economic, cultural, and social stability.
Addressing Trump’s Remarks
In an interview, Tajani addressed Trump’s recent attacks on Pope Leo and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. “With coolness and conviction, we will repeat to our American friends what many in the US already know perfectly: Italy is and wants to remain a strategic partner of the US,” Tajani stated. He underscored the reciprocal nature of the relationship, asserting that just as Italy and Europe need the US, America also benefits from its ties with Italy and Europe. “Without the unity of the West, the cradle of democracy and freedom, there is a concrete risk that autocracies will prevail,” he added.
Tajani confirmed that while no direct contact had yet been made with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Italy’s diplomatic efforts would focus on calmly explaining its positions, interests, and the broader context of its economic, political, and security relations in the Mediterranean. He also indicated that Italy would question the intensity of the attacks on a religious and moral leader like the Pope, especially given Rome’s status as the heart of Christianity and a deeply Catholic nation.
Concerns Over Iran and Nuclear Proliferation
Responding to Trump’s assertion that Italy is unconcerned about Iran developing nuclear weapons, Tajani clarified Italy’s firm stance. “For months we have been telling Iran: it is unacceptable for you to have nuclear weapons because others in the area would seek to have them. A very dangerous, unacceptable nuclear race would start,” he stated. He highlighted Italy’s condemnation of the violent repression of the Iranian population by the Pasdaran, which the EU has listed as a terrorist organization, and its consistent condemnation of Iran’s attacks on Israel, Gulf countries, and Red Sea shipping.
Regarding Trump’s comment that the Pope is unaware of the situation in Iran, Tajani defended the Pontiff: “The Pope has a mission: to proclaim the Gospel that invites us to build peace. He is a strong and solid man who knows the world very well and, above all, the mechanisms that regulate relations between states.”
Continuity in Foreign Policy
Tajani affirmed that Italy’s foreign policy towards the US remains unchanged despite differing opinions on specific issues. “Relations with the US do not change because we have different opinions on the Pope’s words, on Greenland, on participation in the war in Iran or on Italian casualties in Afghanistan. The US is Italy’s main ally and of the EU, and we want it to remain so,” he asserted.
The automatic renewal of the defense agreement with Israel has been suspended, a decision made within the current context. Tajani indicated that discussions with Israel would resume as soon as feasible.
Political Unity and Upcoming Diplomatic Engagements
Tajani expressed appreciation for Elly Schlein’s solidarity with Prime Minister Meloni following Trump’s attack, stating he would have acted similarly. He emphasized the importance of national unity in defending the country’s leader against foreign attacks, noting that while opposition parties often criticize the government, there should be common ground on issues of national importance.
Looking ahead, Tajani’s planned trip to China, scheduled for several months, aims to discuss a range of issues, including the crisis in the Strait of Hormuz. He highlighted the potential global impact of a blockage in the strait, particularly on oil and fertilizer prices, and the risk of a humanitarian crisis in Africa. Italy seeks to collaborate with China to de-escalate conflicts and ensure global stability.
Tajani also participated in a conference in Berlin on Sudan, where he appealed for international action to address the civil war’s catastrophic effects, including millions of displaced persons. He urged Arab states supporting warring factions to cease military aid and called for diplomatic efforts to achieve peace and provide humanitarian assistance, launching the “Italy for Sudan” program.
Regarding the future of Forza Italia, Tajani chose not to comment on recent changes in the party’s leadership, stating, “Well, in any case, I would say we’ll talk about it in a few days.”
