Domestic Policy
Day of Memory: At the Quirinale, a solemn ceremony on the Day of Memory commemorated the Shoah, attended by state institutions and survivors, including Liliana Segre and Sami Modiano. President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella warned against the “dangerous resurgence” of racism and anti-Semitism, reiterating that in the Republic “there is no place for the poison of racial hatred” and recalling that Italian Jews were “betrayed by the racial laws imposed by fascism.” Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reaffirmed condemnation of the “complicity of the fascist regime in the persecutions, roundups, and deportations.” Mattarella emphasized historical responsibilities and the duty of vigilance, reminding that the Constitution was born from the sacrifice of victims and freedom fighters.
National Future: Roberto Vannacci has registered the symbol “Futuro nazionale – Vannacci,” fueling speculation about a possible independent political project, which the MEP and deputy secretary of the League has downplayed, describing it as a simple trademark protection. The application was filed with the European Patent Office, while internal tensions within the League are growing due to his positions. In the background remain the distancing statements by Matteo Salvini and concerns, even among allies, about a future separate political initiative.
Foreign Policy
Italy-Iran: Diplomatic tensions between Italy and Iran have risen following the summoning of the Italian ambassador to Tehran after statements by Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani regarding the Revolutionary Guards. Italy intends to propose at the EU level the inclusion of the Pasdaran in the list of terrorist organizations, as part of new European sanctions against Iran. The Foreign Ministry has meanwhile strengthened security measures, reducing non-essential staff at the Italian embassy in Tehran.
Switzerland: Switzerland has approved the participation of Italian investigators in the inquiry into the fire in Crans-Montana, through a joint investigative team with authorities from the Canton of Valais. The decision, provided for under the European Convention on Judicial Assistance, confirms cooperation between the prosecutors of Rome and Sion, respecting the separation of powers.
Economy and Finance
EU-India: After twenty years of negotiations, the European Union and India have signed a historic free trade agreement to strengthen economic ties. The deal will reduce or eliminate tariffs on over 90% of European exports, simplifying trade and boosting EU exports to the Indian market. Savings of up to €4 billion per year are expected, along with new opportunities in services, from financial to maritime industries. The agreement excludes liberalization of the most sensitive agricultural sectors and maintains EU standards on health and safety. According to estimates, the EU-India economic area could represent 20% of global GDP, with positive impacts also on employment.
Milleproroghe: A minor reopening of the 2003 building amnesty appeared in the Milleproroghe decree, proposed by majority amendments, but the provision was quickly declared inadmissible due to lack of relevance. The initiative, however, confirms the government parties’ continued interest in the issue, previously highlighted during the Budget Law. Opposition parties and environmental associations have strongly criticized the proposal, describing it as an incentive for building violations, particularly in a context of territorial emergencies.