“I do not consider it useful for Italy to fuel internal controversy on the ESM,” Meloni told lawmakers in a communication to parliament ahead of the European Council meeting in Brussels on Thursday and Friday.
The comments were made amid divisions within the government over finally ratifying reforms of the EU’s bailout mechanism and continued Italian concerns over budgetary sovereignty.
“Italy’s interest is to engage in negotiations on European governance, where we discuss our national interest,” said Meloni.
“Even before a question of merit, there is a question of method on how to defend the national interest,” she added.
On Saturday Meloni said it would be a mistake to put the controversial issue to parliament now, indirectly confirming reports she is thinking of putting off a showdown on the ESM until after the summer recess.
Meloni is said to be keen on postponing the ratification until the last possible moment and possibly using it as a bargaining chip in an issue which Rome sees as much more important, the reform of the EU’s Stability and Growth Pact.
ANSA
