EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Josep Borrell has said he hopes the new Italian government will stick to the policy of Premier Mario Draghi’s outgoing administration and continue to staunchly support Ukraine and measures against Russia after it invaded its neighbour.
“I hope the new Italian government maintains the same position as the previous one in relation to issues of security and support of Ukraine,” Borrell said.
“It’s very important that this happens.
“It’s not my job to deal with the internal political dynamics of the member States, but it’s clear that these dynamics have an impact on our foreign stance.
“The European Union’s foreign policy depends on our internal cohesion and our unity.”
Fratelli D’Italia (FdI) leader Giorgia Meloni, who looks set to become Italy’s next premier after her right-wing party spearheaded her coalition to victory in last month’s general election, has repeatedly said the new government will not break ranks with the rest of the West over Ukraine.
Borrell also spoke about the European Commission’s recommendation that Bosnia and Herzegovina be granted candidate status by the European Council, paving the way for EU accession negotiations.
“Opening up to Bosnia and Herzegovina is a strategic decision,” Borrell said.
“The new situation highlights the importance of enlarging the EU so that it takes on a new geopolitical significance, with major implications for the region.”
