Speeches

Mr President, Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, enlargement of the European Union has returned to the heart of the European political agenda. Russia’s war against Ukraine has shown how the stability of our neighbourhood is directly linked to the security of the continent. For this reason, the accession process must remain credible and rigorously merit-based, in accordance with the Copenhagen criteria and full alignment withacquis European. In this context, the Western Balkans remain a strategic priority: Supporting the completion of the European path of Albania and Montenegro means strengthening the stability of the region and the security of Europe. At the same time, we need to strengthen cooperation with the candidate countries on the security and management of migration flows, which, in my view, is crucial. Enlargement must remain a serious, gradual process based on the political responsibility of the Member States.

Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, a brutal crackdown is underway in Iran against the people who are demanding freedom. Peaceful protests repressed by force, mass arrests, death penalty threats, unprecedented digital blackouts to silence the truth. They are not excesses, it is a deliberate strategy of the regime. And in the face of all this, the European Union cannot afford ambiguity. This is a test of credibility. There is no stability without freedom or dialogue without respect for human dignity. Clear choices are needed: strengthen targeted sanctions against those responsible for repression; coordinate with G7 partners to maintain high political pressure; support the gathering of evidence of human rights violations so that no one feels protected from impunity. The European Union must stand, without ifs and buts, without hesitation, on the side of the Iranian people.

Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, High Representative, the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Greenland and the Kingdom of Denmark are not negotiable. The European Union must defend them with a deep sense of diplomacy, but that is precisely why we must avoid emotional responses, such as sending troops, rather than thinking about tariffs or sanctions between allies: It is a mistake that risks triggering an unnecessary escalation that weakens the West instead of strengthening it. The real strategic challenge in the Arctic comes not from allies, but from Russia's military pressure and China's growing economic and geopolitical penetration, which obviously aim to redefine strategic balances and routes. We therefore need political dialogue, coordination and accountability; dialogue between the United States, which remains a pillar of our security; coordination in NATO, which is a pivot of deterrence; clarity in distinguishing between partners and opponents; firmness in principles, lucidity in choices. And so Europe truly defends common sovereignty and security.

Madam President, ladies and gentlemen, any violation of the skies of our allies, any sabotage of pipelines and ports, is a threat to our common security. We need cold blood to avoid provocations, but we also need clear rules to defend our borders and critical infrastructure. Italy supports the creation of a European anti-drone shield, integrated with NATO and promoted by Minister Crosetto, to protect our strategic networks. We also call for the full implementation of the directives on resilience and cybersecurity and common resources to defend ports, pipelines and digital networks, as well as joint European justice and police action against sabotage and disinformation. Then I fully agree with what President von der Leyen said earlier, especially with regard to the problem of European defence investment being spent in Europe in order to make our continent as competitive and strong as possible. Only a united and rapid decision-making Europe will be able to guarantee security and freedom for its fellow citizens.

Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, Commissioner, the peace plan proposed by the United States is a concrete attempt to ensure stability and development in the Gaza Strip. The European Union must support it with pragmatism and unity of purpose. As President von der Leyen recalled, Europe is ready to contribute political, economic and humanitarian resources. This commitment must strengthen the prospect of peaceful coexistence between two States, based precisely on the rejection of violence and mutual recognition. The Italian Government, among other things, has indicated a clear line: Hamas cannot play any role in the future government of Gaza, but it is equally important to prevent the suffering of the Palestinian people from being exploited for ideological purposes. The path to peace in Gaza remains difficult, but today we can see a glimmer of light and hope: the possibility of restoring to civilians a future of security and dignity.

Madam President, Madam High Representative, ladies and gentlemen, in Gaza, the suffering of the civilian population and the captivity of hostages cry out to the world that this war must be brought to an absolute end. We must identify paths to peace as soon as possible, but we also know that peace is not built with slogans. We need security for Israel, freedom and dignity for the Palestinians and the courage of a new narrative that does not feed hatred and dehumanization, as the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem recalled. For Fratelli d'Italia the line is clear: support for Israel's right to defend itself against terrorism, but equally firm demand for proportionality and protection of the Palestinian people and humanitarian corridors. Moreover, we cannot remain silent in the face of the suffering of Christian communities, also affected by this spiral of violence, yet fundamental in the balance of the region. Europe cannot and must not limit itself to making proclamations, it has a duty to act. Italy will obviously do its part, because only two peoples and two free and secure states can pave the way for a lasting peace.

Madam President, Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, after years in which Moscow was only demanding the surrender of Kiev, today, in my opinion, there are openings of dialogue, made possible by the resistance of the Ukrainian people and the united support of the West, as President Meloni has pointed out. In this framework, Italy played a significant role at the recent White House summit, proposing a security assurance system inspired by NATO Article 5: not a deployment of troops, but a commitment to a rapid and credible response against new aggressions. And yet, unfortunately, ahi us, the reality remains dramatic: Russia has just launched a vast airstrike since the beginning of the war, with hundreds of missiles and drones on Kiev, which resulted in death and devastation. In the face of this ferocity, we cannot give in to discouragement. As Pope Leo XIV recalled, we need the courage to get out of the spiral of hatred and follow the path of dialogue. This is the compass that must guide Europe: freedom, security and dignity for Ukraine.

Madam President, Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, this report strikes a balance between Albania's progress on its accession to the European Union. In particular, alignment with the common foreign policy, institutional strengthening and contribution to regional stability. It remains crucial to maintain a strong focus on judicial independence, the protection of fundamental rights and the fight against corruption, as well as to overcome political polarisation, which are essential to strengthen mutual trust and to conclude accession negotiations. Among other things, I have been able to see, also with the rapporteur, Mr Schieder, that significant progress has also been made in this area. Finally, I would like to emphasise the value of cooperation on immigration. The agreement between Italy and Albania shows that it is possible to face complex challenges with concrete and shared tools, in compliance with European law and national sovereignty. Albania is a strategic partner and the Union must accompany the European path with determination and rigour.

Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, Commissioner, enlargement of the European Union is one of the great geopolitical and political challenges of our time. It is not just about the candidate countries. It is about the future of Europe itself and its ability to be a global player, defend its interests and ensure stability. Italy has always strongly supported the European path of the Western Balkans and the other candidate countries. But it is right that this path should be serious, gradual, based on concrete commitments and a genuine desire to approach European values and standards. Because those who apply to join the Union must show that they want to be an integral part of a political community, not just an economic one. In this process, instruments such as Twinning, TAIEX and the INCE Fund, which Italy fully funds, play a key role. Real projects that help these countries build strong, capable and efficient administrations. But enlargement is also a strategic issue, given the geopolitical situation we live in, full of instability and hybrid threats. Strengthening ties with neighbouring countries is also a way to make the European Union safer and more resilient. Italy will continue to contribute with determination to this common path. In this scenario, it is the whole of Europe that must reaffirm its leading role, promoting enlargement that is truly useful, credible and sustainable.

Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, very kind Commissioner, the crisis in the Middle East imposes balance and responsibility on Europe. We strongly condemn Hamas terrorism and reaffirm Israel's right to defend itself. At the same time, we call for the protection of Palestinian civilians and immediate access to humanitarian aid. Italy does not support the revision of the EU-Israel agreement. It would be an ideological act that cannot be overridden by European credibility and would hinder any diplomatic effort. There is also serious concern about the escalation with Iran, a regime that denies Israel's right to exist and fuels terrorism in the region. Brothers of Italy is clear: never to the Iranian nuclear weapon, yes to the political solution that avoids regional conflict. President Meloni reiterated this at the G7: You need one. descaling, a truce that opens a window to peace. As Pope Leo XIV said: Peace is built with justice, respectful dialogue and security for all. Italy is ready to do its part.

Madam President, ladies and gentlemen, managing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict requires balance, firmness and humanity. As President Giorgia Meloni recalled, we are friends of Israel, but not indifferent to the drama that is taking place in the Gaza Strip. We were among the first to strongly condemn Hamas' terrorist attacks and to uphold Israel's right to defend itself, in full respect of international law. But precisely because we are sincere allies, we call for clarity on long-term goals and maximum respect for the Palestinian civilian population. Today it is urgent to obtain the release of the hostages, reach an immediate ceasefire, definitively defeat Hamas terrorism and relaunch a credible negotiation process leading to a solution based on "two peoples and two states", with mutual recognition in the peaceful coexistence of these two peoples. Because today, more than ever, is the time for dialogue, responsibility and the courage to build bridges with love for one’s neighbour – with love for one’s neighbour – and fidelity to our values.

Mr President, Minister, ladies and gentlemen, to support a fair, sustainable and comprehensive peace in Ukraine means first of all to have the courage of the truth. And the truth is that the war does not stop with proclamations, but with serious diplomacy, with credible interlocutors and the political will to build a stable future. In this sense, Europe cannot remain an absolute spectator, it must open real diplomatic channels even with those partners who will play a decisive role in the coming months: I am obviously referring to the United States of America and Donald Trump, with whom Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni has been able to build a solid and coherent relationship, based on common values and strategic vision. Moreover, the recent official visit of President Zelensky to Rome testifies to the international recognition of Italy’s active and credible role, thanks to the leadership of President Meloni, who continues to contribute seriously and consistently – and I stress consistently – to the search for a diplomatic and lasting solution to the conflict. We must also be ready not only to support the defence of Ukraine but also to show our solidarity with the Ukrainian people through concrete acts, accompanying them on the path of reconstruction. The European Union must take the lead in restoring infrastructure, essential services and hope to a nation hard hit by the conflict. The White Paper is a useful tool for European defence, but it must be used in the best way to secure our defence industry as well. Fratelli d'Italia is on the side of peace but of a true peace based on respect for the law, on the security of the European peoples and on the freedom of Ukraine.

Madam President, Madam High Representative, ladies and gentlemen, this report calls for reflection: Do we want a strong Europe or just a more bureaucratic one? Cooperation is necessary, but it cannot sacrifice the sovereignty of the Member States. The agreement with Albania, for example, on returns is something concrete; We can fight illegal immigration, we need courage and pragmatism. The Commission confirmed that it is fully compliant with Union law. Enough ideologies, concrete solutions are needed. Supporting Ukraine is a must, but let us not forget the goal: building a just and lasting peace, not fuelling an endless conflict. And enough with the illusion of an alternative Europe to NATO, or in opposition to the United States: The West defends itself together, with balance and a common vision. Europe returns to being a protagonist without complexes, and without renouncing its identity.

Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, the White Paper on the future of European defence is a crucial opportunity to draw up a clear, realistic and effective strategy. Europe must strengthen its defensive capacity, while avoiding duplicating NATO or creating new unnecessary bureaucratic superstructures. Italy supports a stronger defence based on targeted investments, on a competitive industry in the strategic sectors of space, communications and technological innovation. Investing in security does not mean fuelling a race to rearmament but giving stability, strategic autonomy and economic growth. That is why the plan put forward by President von der Leyen, in my view, must be renamed as Defence Europe. Security is the true guarantee of peace and that is why I also want to stigmatize the behavior of some who profess to be pacifists only to gather a few consents without thinking about national interests. The White Paper must be an opportunity to build a strong European defence, respecting the specificities of each Member State, and to strengthen Europe's role in the world.

Mr President, Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, what is happening in the Democratic Republic of Congo is extremely worrying. The fall of Goma into the hands of the M23 rebels has triggered a very serious humanitarian crisis, while tension is also growing in Kinshasa, with episodes that demonstrate a growing distrust on the part of the population towards the international community. The European Union must therefore turn the page. We need to start building a new partnership with Africa, based on mutual respect and shared growth. In this sense, the Mattei plan, this brilliant idea of the Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, represents a concrete model for strengthening cooperation, promoting development, stability and security. Clear political choices are also needed. We must strongly support the mediation processes led by African countries, recognising their central role in finding lasting solutions. Africa does not need top-down interventions, but reliable partners. And of course I believe that Europe must show that it is up to this role.

Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, Commissioner, after three years of Russia's brutal attack on Ukraine, our duty is clear: The European Union must stand firm in its support for Ukraine, not only to defend its sovereignty, but also to ensure security for the entire continent. Our goal must be peace, just and lasting. This means continuing to support Kiev with the necessary aid, but at the same time intensifying diplomatic efforts to seek a political solution to the conflict, supporting any initiative that can bring to the negotiating table and end the suffering of millions of people. In this context, in my view, transatlantic cooperation is essential to tackle this crisis with unity and determination. We recall that dialogue with the United States is essential, as they remain our main ally and key partner in an era of global and interconnected challenges. The European Union cannot afford to hesitate. We must continue with firmness in our assistance to Kiev, without ever losing sight of the imperative of peace and peace.

Madam President, Commissioner, ladies and gentlemen, we often hear about peace, but, as the Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, has said, peace is not an acquired right, nor something eternal: It is a daily achievement that requires commitment and determination. To those who criticise defence spending, I recall that it serves to ensure security, to rebuild stability in conflict-ravaged lands and to act as a deterrent to keeping threats away from our communities. Speaking of defence does not mean embracing a warlike logic, but guaranteeing the security and well-being of European citizens. And that is why we must be as ambitious and pragmatic as possible and ensure that, precisely, defence investment – and I stress investment – must be kept out of the Stability Pact. Only in this way will we be able to build a Europe that is better prepared to respond to the global challenges that lie ahead. A strong and cohesive Europe does not mean a Europe that renounces its national sovereignty, but a Europe that stands as a guarantor of peace and security for all its peoples. We must state this clearly and proudly.

Mr President, Madam Vice-President – best wishes for your new post – ladies and gentlemen, the fall of the Assad regime represents a crucial historical moment not only for Syria, but for the entire geopolitical scenario of the Middle East. Europe has a responsibility to lead this transition, avoiding the mistakes made in the past in both Iraq and Libya, where the lack of a clear strategy has left those countries in chaos. Today it is crucial to remember that Syria's stability also depends on the surrounding region, in particular Jordan, which is already facing the consequences of this crisis. The recent statement by President von der Leyen, expressing the European Union's full support for Jordan, is a tangible sign of how Europe intends to work closely with Syria's neighbouring countries to ensure an orderly political transition, in line with the principles of UN Security Council Resolution 2254. An unstable Syria is a ticking time bomb not only because of the real risk of an explosion in migration, but above all because of the infiltration of terrorist groups in Europe and beyond. The European Union must firmly ensure the provision of humanitarian support and the reconstruction of vital infrastructure through Jordan. I am convinced that we can work with this Commission and this Parliament to ensure that this transition can take place in the most democratic way possible.

Madam President, ladies and gentlemen, yesterday we commemorated the first anniversary of Hamas' attacks on Israel. An event that has left deep scars and highlights the urgency of pursuing a lasting peace. Today the crisis in the Middle East reaches alarming levels. Clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, devastating raids on Gaza and growing Iranian intervention threaten the stability of the region. Uncontrolled escalation is unacceptable. The G7 leaders' statement, with a clear commitment by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for Israel's security, strongly condemns the Iranian military attack. It is crucial that Iran and its allies, including Hezbollah and Hamas, immediately cease their destabilizing actions. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is catastrophic. We need an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, unhindered humanitarian access. The protection of civilians must be a priority. In Lebanon, compliance with UN Resolutions 1701 and 2735 is crucial. The UNIFIL mission must be reinforced to avoid further escalation along the Blue Line, the blue line. The European Union plays a decisive role in promoting peace, working, of course, with the United Nations and regional partners. It is therefore essential to pursue the "two peoples, two nations" solution through diplomacy, so that we can build a future of stability in the Middle East. Acting with unity is essential as the future of the region depends on today's choices.

I think I was very clear. President Meloni has made it very clear that we must support Ukraine by sending weapons exclusively on a defensive basis.

Mr President, ladies and gentlemen, the conflict in Ukraine is a crucial challenge not only for the country affected by Russian aggression, but for the entire European and global geopolitical order. Our support as the European Union cannot be seen as a discretionary choice, but as a collective responsibility dictated by the defence of the founding principles of our Union: democracy, sovereignty and respect for international law. During the recent meeting with President Zelensky at the Ambrosetti Forum in Cernobbio, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reiterated a position that I fully share: We must not give up. This message is not only a statement of intent, but a strategic stance that recognizes how much Ukraine's fate is inextricably linked to the security of the whole of Europe. President Meloni said that Italy's support for Ukraine is not only a matter of solidarity, but also of national interest. The defence of Ukraine is equivalent to the defence of the rule of law and European stability. Allowing Russia today to use its military dominance to subdue a sovereign nation would set a dangerous precedent, undermining the security of all free nations. President Zelensky, at the bilateral meeting in Cernobbio, renewed the request for more military assistance, especially in view of the difficult winter that awaits his country. Italy’s clearly expressed response was firm: There will be no surrender of our commitment. Then, by virtue of all this, I declare that, in my opinion, it is our duty to continue to support Ukraine by providing all the necessary aid to ensure the...