Italy can contribute constructively to this debate and, more generally, to the debate on the future of the European Union, as it has always been an enthusiast defender of European integration, more recently by our President Giorgio Napolitano, and, in the past, by such figures as Alcide De Gasperi and Altiero Spinelli. It was also under Italian presidencies that the EU decided to go for the direct elections of the European Parliament, for the launch the single market and, in the Rome Council of 1990, to overcome the resistances of Margareth Thatcher and proceed towards the Maastricht Treaty. Italy is also the only country where the Lisbon Treaty, also thanks to the influence of President Napolitano, has already been unanimously ratified by both Houses of Parliament. I agree that faith in Europe should not be a religious matter, but I’m comforted by a strong and long-lasting continuity between the various Italian governments on Europe more recently between the Prodi and Berlusconi government and now, I hope, with a renewed credibility and willingness by the Italian people to stick to disciplined, economic behaviour. Domestically Italy might provide a helpful role in allowing the European Council and the whole of European Union to find quickly a sustainable and sound way to growth.

Thank you for your attention.