(see related)
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".
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