Domestic Politics
Mattarella: President Sergio Mattarella has highlighted the challenges facing the national health service, describing them as “an obstacle to the right to health.” Speaking at the Quirinale during the opening of “I giorni della ricerca” (Days of Research) hosted by the Airc Foundation, the head of state emphasized that “research knows no borders” and that “innovations benefiting people’s lives must have a positive impact on the entire system.” Mattarella also condemned the spread of “nonsensical anti-scientific theories” and called for greater investment in research, describing it as a “medium- and long-term responsibility.”
Venice: At Ca’ Foscari University in Venice, a group from the Sumud Collective disrupted a conference on peace in the Middle East featuring Emanuele Fiano. The former Democratic Party MP described the incident as “fascist behavior,” recalling that his father was similarly prevented from speaking in 1938. The episode drew widespread political solidarity, from Elly Schlein to Ignazio La Russa.
Foreign Policy
Orban in Italy: Viktor Orban’s visit to Rome was marked by a packed schedule of meetings, beginning with an audience with Pope Leo XIV, focusing on the Hungarian community and ongoing conflicts. The Hungarian prime minister then met with the Grand Master of the Order of Malta and, finally, with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at Palazzo Chigi. The war in Ukraine was central to their discussions, with divergent positions: Orban reiterated that “the European Union means nothing” and that “peace can never emerge solely from Russian-Ukrainian talks.” Despite differing approaches, both leaders acknowledged the limitations of sanctions and the importance of China’s role. The dialogue also extended to European competitiveness and common defense funding.
Argentina: Javier Milei secured a decisive electoral victory in Argentina, surpassing 42% and strengthening his party “La Libertad Avanza.” The president celebrated, calling it “a historic day” and urging to “make Argentina great again,” referencing the “Maga” model of Trump, who has openly supported him. Markets reacted positively, but economic challenges remain, along with the need for parliamentary agreements to implement reforms.
Economy and Finance
Budget: Giorgia Meloni outlined the priorities for the upcoming fiscal plan, guided by the principle of “protecting businesses.” The prime minister ruled out new taxes on production, instead calling for “a contribution on accumulated profits” from banks, which have benefited from government policies. Meloni stressed that “maintaining fiscal balance requires resources” and believes “it is fair that these same banks help us.” Among the announced measures are the confirmation of the tax credit for the single Zes zone and the reintroduction of super and hyper-depreciation. Finally, Meloni announced “a major housing plan to provide young couples with affordable housing.”
Tariffs and Monetary Policy: European and Wall Street stock markets closed higher, driven by optimism over the trade agreement between the United States and China, expected to be formalized by Donald Trump and Xi Jinping in South Korea. The U.S. president, on a trip to Asia, praised Xi and announced a future visit to China, while in Tokyo he met Emperor Naruhito and new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Meanwhile, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that the list of candidates to replace Jerome Powell at the helm of the Federal Reserve has been narrowed to five names, with a decision expected “before Christmas.”