FI backs NATO, is against Russian invasion Tajani tells EPP

(see related) (ANSA) - ROME, OCT 20 - Forza Italia (FI) Coordinator Antonio Tajani said Thursday that the party and its leader are firmly behind NATO and against Russia's invasion of Ukraine during the European People's Party (EPP) summit ahead of the European Council.
    Forza Italia leader Silvio Berlusconi is at the centre of a furore after an audio recording was released in which he told his party's lawmakers that he has re-established ties with his old friend, Russian President Vladimir Putin, via the exchange of gifts and "sweet" letters and suggested Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky's actions had forced Moscow's invasion of its neighbour.
    "I'm here to confirm, once again, the position of my party, my personal position and the position of the leader of my party totally in favour of NATO and trans-Atlantic relations, in favour of Europe, and against the unacceptable Russian invasion of Ukraine," Tajani said.
    Tajani had been expected to be named foreign minister in Meloni's government but opposition parties have said he should not get this post given what the FI leader has said about the war in Ukraine.
    EPP President Manfred Weber said the group remained behind former European Parliament President Tajani.
    "We will support any government that has a clear approach in favour of the EU, in favour of Ukraine and in favour of the rule of law," Weber said on his way into the meeting.
    "I'm happy that Antonio Tajani is here. He is the guarantee of FI's pro-Atlantic position".
    European Parliament President Roberta Metsola echoed those sentiments.
    "I'll meet Tajani," she said.
    "I have spoken to all the Italian political leaders. My message to Italy is to remain in the heart of Europe.
    "I have no doubt that it will and I have no doubt about its support for the Atlantic alliance and for Ukraine". (ANSA).