- 2026-06-16 “And when it comes to the legislative framework, there's now a more balanced, coordinated approach Based on aspects of certainty of law, proportionality. And again, you have appropriate and sufficient involvement of member states. Now, there are definitely some areas where improvements have been made compared to the original proposal. Which Italy supported. We supported the proposal throughout the negotiations. I would just like to say, though, that we are unhappy when it comes to the guarantees. We think they are insufficient when it comes to the cohesion policy. They don't preserve its nature sufficiently. Regarding cohesion policy. I would just recall the fact that the document which the Friends of Cohesion signed, provided for that policy, having appropriate Sufficient funding guaranteed for all categories of regions. Now, that's not the case at the moment. And also, we can clearly see that the amendment to article 22 of the regulation has not been taken into account. That provided for resources for less developed regions being exclusively destined for cohesion policy measures. Italy hopes, therefore, that in the upcoming legislative process, these concerns will be taken into account. Additionally, I did want to say that when it comes to the regulation introducing bringing in the ECF.”
Cohesion and rural funding
- 2026-06-16 “Thank you Marilena. I speak Italian. We'd like to thank the presidency for its work. And we listened carefully. To what was said by the Commissioner. But we do think that in this box there is one objective which perhaps should be amended. There can be parallel convergence in politics, but not really when you're talking about budgets. Now a budget cut of 2%. Okay. But we also want to say clearly that for Italy. If you look at this budget proposal, there are quite a lot of things that could be criticized. Italy is the third largest net contributor in the EU. And reducing allocations to Italy, even at current prices. I think that's something which we're clearly seeing here. Now, we've heard it said a number of occasions, and it's right that we need a more modern budget, which is up to the task to enable us to face the challenges which we do face and which every day we are having to face. However, it's also true that. Modernising the budget can't really be married with maintaining the rebates. Now some people are asking for more cuts in heading one. We would say in response to that, the following. We should look at how things are going. For the heading one funds here compared to the previous M, F and then the other headings as well. In other headings we've seen three figure increases. Now there are some points we're satisfied with. There are some places where some requests we made have been taken into account. For example, the possibility for member states to use up to two thirds of medium term flexibility for the cap.”
Size of EU budget
- 2026-06-16 “And an effort has been made when it comes to resources for fisheries, despite the fact that there's still at half the level of what they were in the previous MFF. Now the cascade mechanism does create the possibility for direct access to European resources. If there is a natural disaster or a crisis, and there are methods through which people can avail themselves of those resources. However, there are at least two. Critical points, which I think we have to make and which we can't underestimate. We don't think traditional policies are safeguarded here enough. The cap or cohesion policy. Both of these are being shrunk, even if you look at current prices. And I would say, for example, at current prices, when it comes to the cohesion policy, Italy would have fewer resources to the tune of 11 or 12% less. And then there's the fact that funds for internal security and border security have been Introduced that you have the climate target as well. 43%. The change. Now, when it comes to the rule of law, we're talking about that afterwards. But perhaps at this point I could just draw people's attention to do no significant harm. That principle that should not compromise our ability to compete, to be competitive. So that's the first point. And I would also say Italy is against any mechanism which would lead to different treatment of different member states. Thank you.”
Cohesion and rural funding
- 2026-06-16 “Thank you. Now you speak in Italian. Italy would like to thank the Cyprus presidency once again for the intensive work it's done. We are in favor of partial general approach here for the regulations. Italy, in particular, welcomes the fact that various provisions to do with the Cap have been transferred from the regulation on plans to the various sectoral pieces of legislation. Now we recognise that there's now more visibility for the C, a, P and fisheries policy. We have to look at allocated resources though as well. There have been improvements made when it comes to the governance of plans and flexibility regarding the institutional setup in member States. Now progress has been made when it comes to ensuring certifications. We can definitely see that. And we also agree with the fact that cofinancing rates, specific ones have been brought in for the home funds. Italy is also in favor of the compromise reached on conditionality related to the rule of law and fundamental rights. And then I would just clarify. And we've already we've always said this, that equality before the law is the basis for the rule of law. If you want the rule of law to work, the instruments which are available need to have a legal basis, which is solid and which appropriately involves member states.”
Agricultural funding
- 2026-06-16 “We're in favour of that. We're happy because the role here of member states in the governance of the fund has been strengthened. Technological neutrality has been recognized as one of the basic criteria for the Clean Transition window. Smes now have a much more robust framework to protect them, and the invest EU instruments been improved as well. And when it comes to that instrument, I would remind you that we had a position paper supported by other member states on that. We think that there is still room for further improvement. I would refer in particular to the rate which is there. We think it's still too high. It should be lower, should be 40%. And then when it comes to global Europe. More involvement of the council and governance of the instrument is important. And the Global Europe Committee should be able to meet in specific formats to ensure more transparency and better political awareness of the possibilities for using the instruments. I would also say that we will annex. A statement as well, and we'd like that to be added to the minutes of the meeting. Thank you. So we'll send a statement to be added to the minutes of the meeting.”
EU industrial funding (mechanism level: EU-pooled vs nationally-financed)
- “Thank you. Chair. Italy would like to draw the council's and the Commission's attention to the current crisis that the dairy sector is facing, which is characterised by structural imbalance between a constantly growing supply and a demand that is unable to absorb any surplus, resulting in the consequent decline in the farm gate price of raw milk, which we've been witnessing in recent months. We therefore require an immediate response at EU level with by preparing an extraordinary plan for milk, based primarily on the activation on the implementation of European Programme to Finance Voluntary Production reductions, which provides financial compensation to farmers who decide to limit their production. We also believe in order to stabilize prices, to stop private storage in the cheese butter, sorry to aid private storage in the cheese, butter and milk sectors, as the Hungarian colleagues have said. At the same time, European Commission must provide extraordinary support to the most vulnerable farmers, including debt relief measures such as moratoria. Furthermore, regarding the European Fund for aid to the Most Deprived, this needs to have a real impact on the market, and to do so we must include most widely distributed cheeses at local level. Finally, I would like to emphasise the importance of investing in extraordinary campaigns for dairy products, highlighting the nutritional content and sustainability of European products and stimulating domestic consumption with a DOP and IGP labels, which would highlight the importance of our products on international markets. Thank you.”
Direct payments to farmers (pillar 1)
- “Thank you president. The overall assessment of the compromise, Texas positive two. The proposal reflects the urgent need for action and controls to tackle and combat soil degradation in line with the main European strategies for a sustainable level of water, soil, and air pollution. The measures particularly relevant to set in place measures to control and curb soil degradation and in particular, contamination and land take. It increases the resilience of territories to climate change and the risk of catastrophic events. It introduces effective sustainable use practises for agricultural enhancement sustainability, as well as food security. It is important that we develop an effective and home base monitoring and evaluation system to have active policies to protect and recover from degradation. Now the text reshaped the way plans and speakers lost a microphone. Unfortunately, degradation and land take, we can share the objective of fostering technological development to innovate and stimulate research, implement and improve earth observation and measurement systems on the ground. This is in line with what Italy is already doing. We would like to flag up that we need supporting actions from the commission such as specific funding to support the efforts and to set up and maintain the monitoring system. Thank you.”
Nature protection and restoration in the EU
- “Thank you. Chairman. Innovation in the genetic improvement of plants is a very important tool for supporting the transition of our agri food sector towards a model which is more sustainable and profitable, which will help us to face up to current challenges such as climate change. Now in line with what Spain [00:15:00] has said. And I thank them very much for their proposal, we feel that it is necessary and important to continue our work so that council can reach an agreement on this important proposal. In fact, we need to as quickly as possible, adopt the regulation which make it possible for us to make full use of the potential offered by NT, guaranteeing better competitiveness for our agri food systems, which is such a strategic sector for the European [00:15:30] Union. And because this at the same time will reduce our dependence on third countries. Thank you.”
New Genomic Techniques
- “Thank you. Italy. Just would like to say that it's an enormous challenge, an enormous challenge for the industrial sector with regard to climate change. So the targets with regard to 2040 and ambitious aspects, we've got to look at it holistically and we've got to really coordinate. We've got to make sure that we respect the Paris objectives. So the target, we've got to be able to look at it in more detail. We've got to be able to protect the climate and also industrial competitivity. We want to avoid the risk of desertification of the continent. And so therefore we have to guarantee that there are a number of conditions that are satisfactory. So we've got to look at the various aspects where we should intervene. And we've got to also differentiate to those that have an industrial aspect. So first of all, we have to respond to Cbam. And Cbam has got a neutral reaction with regard to the phase in and phase out. And today the companies take advantage of that. Apart from the forecast of maintaining support to exporters for plain living level playing fields. And we've also got to make sure the process of transition be good. And we've got to have some funds for decarbonisation. And we have to have a technologically approach which is neutral with regard to the various European policies. First of all, we've got to look at the automotive area and energy. So we've got to be able to define the objectives, and we've got to make sure that we're flexible as opposed to the standard regulations, and we've got to see how we can actually really make sure that it functions. And so we've got to have regulatory approaches and we've got to be able to ensure that apart from if there's efficiency of public action. So we can't necessarily think about following ambitious targets of decarbonisation. We've got to be able to also look at the Council of Europe, looking at the way in which we're going to have a holistic approach, looking at competitive climate policies and so on, just as Mario Draghi has said in his report. Thank you.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Thank you very much for organizing this conference. It was very successful. I can agree with the conclusion reached. Biosecurity must be promoted and vaccination, [00:18:00] they are essential when it comes to prevention, control and eradication of animal diseases. And I would like to support the idea of being able to retain disease free status for certain diseases. Um, when we're talking about vaccinations based on marker vaccines, I would just like to say that we need to have a single strategy at an EU level for animal diseases, so that. These [00:18:30] strategies can. Be successful, but it mustn't be done by individual countries. And now, when it comes to African swine fever, there are some positions which are not entirely coherent in Europe when it comes to ungulates. Here. We need a deep population and at the same time, in the EU, there's been a great deal of resistance [00:19:00] to these mechanisms. Gisco”
Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
- “Thank you. Chairman. I'd like to thank the presidency and the commission for the work that they've done on these intensive discussions at technical level over recent months. For the post 2030 targets, the EU need to maintain a high level of ambition to reach the 2050 climate neutrality objectives. But at the same time, we have to take account of the current geopolitical situation, business competitiveness and supply chains. It's important to define a financial framework which reflects the objectives and uses appropriate European funds. We need a synergistic approach to industrial policy, or the actions needed to ensure that the competitiveness of Europe is maintained and not penalised when competing with countries where decarbonisation and decarbonisation policies have different impacts, it's important that we have a fair balance between ambition and an economic and environmental transition, which is socially sustainable. We have to take account of the specificities, specificities of Member states and address these with realism and reasonableness. We have to look at technology which prioritizes hydrogen, hydrogen and CCS. And we also have to promote investment in order to build on energy infrastructure. We also have to look at measures that affect demand and reinforce circular economy policies and design. These have a crucial role to play in terms of consumption of raw materials, as to direct societal involvement and involving citizens education. Moving towards a more sustainable consumption pattern. Enabling a cost effective, fair and just climate neutrality transition path. Thank you.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Thank you very much. We would like to thank the presidency for having put this item on the agenda for the Council. Thank you to Spain. And thank you to those who have supported this document. We know that extending the ETS to the maritime sector is something which comes up often. It's a very sensitive and important matter, and we have to make sure that we don't come in too late with any corrective measures. The distortion in competition amongst the major operators in international logistics is something which is becoming very clear. This could undermine investment and jobs and the supply chain. We have to make sure that the commission uses the instruments in the directive to avoid this. It might not even be enough. We need stricter measures. And the document here does talk about this risk of diversion of routes to countries outside the EU and a loss of competitiveness for us. Now we're talking about the effectiveness of the mechanisms in the ETS directive. We need to have a risk assessment. And for the monitoring mechanism. And we have to make sure that we have targeted measures which are ambitious and global in order to safeguard the competitiveness of our ports. I would like to conclude by saying that we if we have an ambitious but not very realistic targets such as the ETS, this could have an adverse impact and run counter to the objectives we have set ourselves. Thank you.”
Extension of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme
- “Thank you very much. I'd like to thank the commission for the presentation and the assessment of the National Energy and Climate Plans. And I recall that we were among the first to submit them on time. We have, uh, do we are doing our best to achieve these goals, even in a context that poses difficulties to achieve some subtargets, I would like to look at the results of these assessments primarily primarily as an indication of how to set regulatory framework for the next decade. We need to leave a more flexibility for the member states on how to achieve the emission reduction target, and this needs to be set forth clearly. And of course, as we look at this, this is a path that will lead us to 2040 and 2050. And in this context, it's important to carefully evaluate the objectives to be defined and the ways in which to achieve them, especially those for the, uh, finding the necessary financial resources. Thank you very much.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Thank you. Chair. We thank the Romanian delegation for raising this important point. We would like to comment on this point, given the importance of the pig sector for Italy, where we are seeing a decline in carcass prices compared to the same period last year, we understand and we share the concerns highlighted by Romanian colleagues, as well as their reflections on the causes of this situation, which we believe requires that measures should be taken at European level, including economic losses due to the African swine fever. Thank you.”
Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
- “In the current context, we think it's important for the specific program of Horizon Europe to have its own programming committee with a dedicated configuration for all the areas, including policy windows on partnerships. We think that there needs to be ambitious political reflection. We need more selective instruments that are easier and more target oriented. The impact of the next program will depend on its ability to better concentrate resources into instruments where there is a clear European added value. On widening, we think it's important to reinforce reinforce the capacity of all member States to fully contribute to EU excellence without lowering the level of ambitious. We need to invest in capacity in complementarity at national and regional level. Lastly, we would like to submit a very important point. We think it's not possible to reinforce European competitiveness by compressing free research space. Most of the more most important research is the work of something which is not predictable necessarily, which is why we need to support excellence guided research. We are very happy with the work that has been made by the presidency, but we need that believe that more political clarity is necessary before we can arrive at a fully shared text. Thank you.”
Research priorities within the EU · EU research funding
- “Thank you. I do understand it's late in the day, but we want to try and prevent a problem which could reach major dimensions, like in the automotive sector. With regard to the extension of the ETS to the maritime sector, we risk losing competitiveness as European ports to non-European ports, particularly those in North Africa, without reducing emissions. 90% of the goods entering and exiting Europe travel by sea. Ports represent critical infrastructure on which our strategic autonomy is based. With regard to the nine countries which may become a majority because it's not just a mediterranean issue, it affects the whole continent of Europe. The corrective measures need to be adopted to the directive to avoid. The problem exploding and having to deal with it a few years down the line. And this is an issue of sovereignty for our continent. Thank you.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Thank you. Chair. Italy. Thanks, Commissioner Tzitzikostas and welcomes the action plan put forward by the Commission. It is, in fact an ambitious plan that comes at the right time. High speed rail must be the backbone of passenger transport in the future. Italy is in the front line to give shape and substance to this plan. By 2032, Italy will be investing €100 billion to bring high speed rail to areas that are not covered yet, particularly in the south of Italy and Sicily. The two rail tunnels under the Brennero and Frejus are have greatly advanced. We have been the first to open up to competitiveness among operators, and new operators will be coming in in 2026. Our sector is in growth and we are aware of the challenges ahead of us, and we count on the Commission's support to overcome them. Thank you.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Thank you. [00:11:00] Chairman. We'd like to thank the Spanish presidency with regard to the negotiating mandate on the breakfast directives, with a view to increasing market transparency and the quality of products, we're convinced of the importance of providing to citizens as much information as possible so that they can make informed choices, particularly when what is at stake is the quality of food and food products and food safety. So we'd like to wish the presidency, [00:11:30] the Belgian presidency, all the best for carrying on with this work and for the trilogues with the European Parliament, so that we'll be able to produce legislation that will be up to consumers expectations.”
Food labelling harmonisation at EU level
- “Accessible energy without a consistent European system, without safeguards, transition will only increase inequalities and Will weaken the Union. And that is why we have spoken of technological neutrality. It's a principle which must prevail. We can't accept exclusions unless they are science based. All technologies that contribute to reducing emissions must be included in the solution. Renewable energy, nuclear storage, geothermal energy, hydroelectric bio fuels and any innovative solutions that emerge. Closing the door to solutions means condemning Europe to chasing the global leaders. And it means we would lose leadership and competitiveness. And there are many examples that I could cite. Then there's the issue of international credits. We believe that we have an opportunity to cooperate at an international level, attracting investment in sectors that have difficulty developing now on natural sinks. We share the concern of other member states, especially if we consider lulucf. Once we compensate emissions, we shouldn't have any more rigid obligations. It's a problem if we block the accounting and the sums. Who establishes 5 million tonnes that we wish to calculate? This doesn't make sense. And it's the same thing for technological removal. This obligation is wrong because every state must decide how to use the instruments, how to use all instruments that are available in order to use Everything it can in consideration of its own priorities. And this is the only way we can guarantee a pragmatic and efficient framework. Presidency. Dear colleagues, the credibility of our decisions requires clear choices, and we need clear decisions to present our citizens and our companies. It's the moment to decide if we want to create a Europe that can guide transition, or a Europe that remains trapped in impossible goals and tensions amongst ourselves. Thank you.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Thank you. Chair. Thank you, France, for including this proposal as an AOB. We share your concerns when it comes to the certifications that are set to expire. We need to assess some measures to ensure that MDS and IVD MDS can continue to be supplied. We're particularly concerned about the complexity and the time frame of the assessment and certification system, and the delay in implementing the EU demand database. [00:18:30] The new roadmap states that it will come fully into force only from 2029. There's also a failure of the nose to take part and provide files for the certification of IVD MDS, particularly those under category D. We believe it's very important at European level to work on two fronts. Firstly, to consistently monitor the situation with regard to the competent authorities in the Member States, and secondly, to take the commitment to consider the possibility of [00:19:00] acting in a timely manner when emergency situations may arise in future. We could also consider legislative solutions such as the following. Gradually implementing the European database EU demand in two phases rather than in a single one as is currently outlined, and also extending the time frame for issuing on the market these IVD MDS as under the directive, so that additional regulation for the notified organization [00:19:30] is not required. Thank you.”
Medical devices
- “Thank you very much. I'd like to thank the commission for the update on the activity to support the recycling sector. It's very important in the circular economy. Italy has been working in this area for many years, and we've booked a very good progress on the national and international levels. But we need a common legislative framework mutual recognition, more, more streamlined procedures and more incentives incentives for the use of secondary materials from recycling. We need economic instruments such as credits that would promote circularity, and we need to harmonise the EPR. We recognise that the circular economy lines up with competitiveness and decarbonisation, but the primary and secondary raw materials from recycled materials that need to be economically viable. There are high, um, energy costs and also external competition like from China. And then, of course, there's the, um, clean industrial deal and the compass. We need to make sure that we work with those. And cohesion plan policy should help us with, uh, installations as well as reuse and repair. We saw the in the and circularity coming into play here, but we do need to make a joint effort. Thank you.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Thank you. Chair. I share the words of Commissioner Tzitzikostas on the perplexities expressed on the text that started well but worsened along the road. I also wish well to the recently arrived colleagues, and I hope, however, that we don't repeat the mistakes we made three years ago in meetings such as this one where we were discussing an end to fuel. Vehicles and we. This brought to a dramatic mistake and the situation has now showed the mistakes we made. And I hope that we can backtrack and save internal combustion vehicles and keep biofuels are in a limited manner. I hope and Italy will be voting against this A document. We really hope that we will manage to reach an objective. We are dissatisfied with the amendments introduced during negotiations because of two points in particular, which have been raised by Commissioner Tzitzikostas. If the objective is that of facilitating the use of electric trucks, this cannot happen by asking transporters to give up on part of their profits, so doing away with part of their their goods. And this also is in line with the aviation and ETS systems. Environmental sustainability must always be accompanied by economic and social sustainability. We must therefore not repeat the mistakes we made in the past. At the same time as Italy has highlighted the risk of endangering one of, well, putting risks, burdening one player instead by favoring another. And I'm not mentioning names here regarding road safety. Luckily, the document does not introduce the obligation of what are known as super trucks. In Italy, we approved a new highway code and in just under a year has cut the number of deaths and accidents by 1000. So before we start talking about super trucks, then we should perhaps look at infrastructure. And we need to be extremely cautious.”
2035 ICE phase-out: strict zero-emission target vs. flexibility for carmakers
- “Thank you. To the presidency and the Commission. I would like to underline that in Geneva, Italy has proven to be balanced and coherent, contributing to the European cohesion and pursuing priority objectives to protect health, the health care in general. We ensure the regulatory approach while protecting the interests of the Member States. We need to be committed to work on strategies on information on products with nicotine, in particular for new generation, mostly for teenagers and their health. The approach is one of being very cautious to be adequate to the regulation and then being very cautious on the market for the younger generation.”
Regulation on New Oral Nicotine Products
- “Thank you very much indeed. Now, in February of last of last year, Christopher Document was presented to the ministers with the objective of trying to connect the link which we should have between food and our society, putting the farmers in the center, in the center of the process. Now, within this document, which was supported by most delegations, we saw a number of our points which cropped up again in your introductory comments, as well as what you said when you were first appointed to your role as commissioner. Now, after two years, I think that we do now have sufficient points to give us pause for thought. The model, which was designed to give us agriculture, which would be more efficient, does have a number of substantive critical points which have to be resolved speedily, because in the meantime, the world of farming has undergone suffering which they can no longer tolerate against the existing legislative framework. They are no longer able to compete effectively with other economies. Given the current market economy, which has been designed for others rather than for us, we have to put them in a position where we can guarantee their competitiveness. We need to guarantee European sovereignty and security in 2024. We discussed all of the problems as regards the deviations between planned unit amounts and realised unit amounts, which requires quite an effort from the administration very often not to justify in cost terms.”
Agriculture (green)
- “Thank you, chair, and thank you to the executive vice president, Bekunin. Italy thanks the Cyprus presidency for leading negotiations on legislative instrument, which we consider crucial for the European Union because the text integrates, and we thank you for integrating the many points that Italy presented.
We are thinking of the adequate attention that is given to the cultural and creative sectors, and we also appreciate the recognition of the importance of independent production and coproduction as well as the role of distribution in cinemas as well as the indication of priority support for this segment.
At this stage, we also believe it's essential to quickly find an agreement on the distribution of financial resources among the various components of Agora EU. In our opinion, it is necessary in particular to ensure that the audiovisual sector and the cultural and creative industries as a whole are adequately supported.
All of this is essential, we believe, to have a Europe that is stronger, more incisive, and closer to the cultural needs of European citizens. Thank you. If I stop”
EU and national cultural identities
- “Thank you Marcus. We fully share this objective of strengthening markets and capital market integration in Europe and avoiding fragmentation of supervision. And this is why we think it's better to have a pragmatic, gradual and proportionate approach. We think having a more targeted scope for direct supervision at European level would be more appropriate today, compared to a generalised provision in certain areas, a stronger role for asthma could bring clear added value, particularly where activity is truly cross-border. But in other cases we need to be more prudent, particularly where the. Potential crisis, where actors remain largely national. The criteria of significance should also be defined in a balanced way. We should look at cross-border activity and interconnectedness and the actual importance for the single market. Basically, we support stronger European supervision where there is clear added value. However, without losing proportionality and operational a realistic approach. So for governance, we also think that if we ask ESMA to do more, we need to strengthen its executive capacity. But this should take place at preserving a good institutional balance and the real involvement of national authorities. For us, we need to clarify in the legislative framework how this the relationship between the European and national levels would work. Will there be structured cooperation? We need structured cooperation, clear rules, and we need to avoid duplication. In this context, the Board of Supervisors could be. Or the Executive board. The creation of an executive board could be useful not as a way of providing a place for coordination, information sharing and preparing decision making in the most important cross border cases. For us, reducing costs and avoiding duplication is not a secondary aspect. It is an essential condition for this reform. Integration works if it if it simplifies. And there is this balance between European capacity and national competence, where that we want to work on with the presidency and all the member States. Thank you.”
Financial regulation
- “Thank you, chair, commissioner. Italy sees strengthening the role of culture as a strategic lever for European competitiveness, social cohesion, and the international projection of the union as a priority.
I'd like to underline 4 areas of intervention that we deem particularly relevant.
Firstly, Italia considers it essential to consolidate support for cultural and creative industries as a keystone of future European policies. The culture and creative industries embody and promote the values of our democracies, pluralism, artistic freedom, and cultural diversity. They're strategic to convey Europe's image and soft power throughout the world. They enable economic growth, innovation, and employment, particularly for younger people.
We must not squander the opportunity afforded by the upcoming work plan to galvanize and renew the EU and member state support for this industrial sector to overcome the challenges posed by AI and bring about an effective digital and ecological transition.
Secondly, Italy believes that the mobility of artists and cultural professionals is key as a cornerstone of European cultural cooperation. Nationally, in Italy, we have exchange programs with several EU partners. Mobility should be encouraged further then to foster professional growth, circulation of works, and a stronger European cultural market.
It's essential to step up European coordination in this context to address the administrative, fiscal, and social obstacles that persist, promoting integrated tools for support, training, protection of rights, or pursuant to European Charter for Artists.
We believe a third priority is on the application of digital technologies, primarily AI to cultural heritage. This is 1 of the greatest and most complex challenges of our time. Technological innovation affords a strategic opportunity to enhance conservation, research, safety, and accessibility in cultural heritage.
However, this must be fully compliant with the principles of authenticity, responsibility, and cultural diversity, copyright, and the dignity of creative people.
Finally, we strongly support boosting cultural cooperation with the countries of the southern neighborhood and the Southern Shore Of The Mediterranean and Africa. These nations look to us to protect their cultural heritage and develop their own cultural and creative industries.
The Italian government is committed to implementing the Mate plan for Africa, which includes an array of cooperation programs. Forging long term cultural partnerships is tantamount to investing in regional stability, mutual understanding, and sustainable development.
In this complex geopolitical context, culture is vital for dialogue and peace. Thank you.”
EU and national cultural identities
- “This is a strategic commitment that's common to all member states, which need long term investment. And I've almost concluded I think it's vital, therefore, that we need an agreement between the EU and national governments, as we had with next generation EU, through resources such as this. We're modernising our infrastructure and ensuring that culture is more accessible through museums, cinemas, etc.. But that's not enough. If we think culture is a common, essential good for European citizens, if we want everyone to have access and benefit from it, then the best instrument of defending culture and our cultural heritage and freedom of expression of our democratic systems. Then the EU needs to be more ambitious. It needs to ensure that we have innovative funding instruments based, maybe not uncommon debt, but at least on an appropriate financial contribution. Military deterrence is a form of common protection, but culture is the only weapon that we have to ensure better chances of dialogue and peace. I think €100 spent on arms should mean, at the very least, we spend €2 on culture, so we won't hopefully use those arms. I think it's our duty, therefore, for us to have a strategic programme covering the whole of the European, European culture. That would be a strong message to the rest of the world and ourselves. Not only do we support our own culture, we do this for a better hope, for a better future of peace and stability.”
EU and national cultural identities
- “I'd like to thank the presidency and the Commission for the open discussion and the flexibility that has been demonstrated in coming up with a compromise text on this very important set of files, which we support. The objective is to reduce pollution in the seas, in line with the objectives of the Green Deal and to reduce accidents, and they also [00:10:00] promote convergence and alignment of our EU legislation with regard to international standards and procedures, such as that of the IMO, it's an important step forward to promote legislative coherence. And the maritime transport sector is a strategic sector for the European Union, as we will understand later this afternoon when the Mediterranean countries will be asking for focusing on new taxes and ETS, and which won't help [00:10:30] the environment but will diminish our competitiveness. And here, however, we have a difference of approach. We are very much in favour of what's being done. Only 1% of the maritime surface area is represented by the Mediterranean, but 20% of global maritime traffic goes through it. And the Mediterranean has recently become more of a hub than a transit ocean, with increasing trade and logistic activities by ports. So the [00:11:00] new provisions on fleet safety and environmental protection will promote the sector's competitiveness. We're doing our bit. The main intervention, the main actions taken by my government, have been focused on renewal of the fleet and development of port infrastructure to meet the challenges of climate change. Thousands, hundreds of thousands of euros, for example, being invested into electrification of our quays. And finally, [00:11:30] but not less important, we continue to support the program to develop the motorways of the sea, which represent the future of maritime intermodality and will promote reduction of. Polluting emissions. So we support the dossiers that have been referred to by the commissioner, because flexibility that is being showed here will promote competitiveness and be good for our environment, which is not the case for the ETS, which we will be talking about [00:12:00] later this afternoon, and where our position is to be very careful to make sure that we safeguard the interests of our maritime industry.”
Decarbonisation of maritime transport
- “Thank you very much. Now, in [00:16:00] order to achieve our objectives for a reduction in emissions for 2040, agriculture should be dealt with differently from other production sectors so that we do not interfere with our food sovereignty in the EU. Any strategies which we want to implement to contain emissions of polluting gases must take into account the specificities of the farming sector. It cannot be dealt with in the same way as other sectors of production, because if we don't do so, we would stimulate relocation outside of EU [00:16:30] for food production and this would undermine the food security of Europe. So we support this proposal for dealing with the agricultural sector separately from other production sectors when it comes to the commitments linked to emissions reductions. Thank you very much.”
Climate efforts
- “Basements of rural areas in the European Union. We need to make sure that farmers have puts at the center of all policies, which are intended to promote the long term development of these regions. We need to have adequate funding from the Cap to produce a productive activities of rural areas, recognizing also that there is a need to keep the whole farm area in production, we should not underestimate the role of the Cap in combating the [00:00:30] aging rural population. We need to carry out a complete assessment of the impact of legislation in the Green Deal, and how it impacts on EU agriculture, to make sure that this is in line with the priority objectives of strategic autonomy, food security and food sovereignty within the European Union. It is also important to stress how in many agricultural areas close to urban agglomerations, farmers have to face extra difficulties caused by [00:01:00] large predators, particularly wolves, which have become spread in an uncontrolled manner. More and more wolves are attacking our livestock, and that is why the protection status of this animal needs to be reassessed to guarantee an action which is in line with the population development of wild wolves. This shows the central role of farmers both as guardians of the territory but also as bio regulators. In other words, regulators of biodiversity. [00:01:30] Wild animals need to be protected when they are at a risk of extinction, but they need also to be correctly managed when they are overpopulated. So therefore, we say that we need to look at the problem of the presence of wild animals by adjusting the legal framework for the status of wolves in the light of objective scientific data. This is something that policies need to use in order to take the right decisions. Thank you. [00:02:00]”
Large Carnivores
- “Thank you, President. We understand the problems set out by our Romanian colleague and we are aware of the difficulties that farmers are facing because of the increase in production costs and the impact of adverse [00:16:00] climate events. For this reason, we support the proposal to introduce the necessary flexibility in the implementation of the strategic plans and that for 2024 we should also foresee derogations to gaiac seven and Gaiac eight. This would allow farmers to better plan their production and contribute to guaranteeing food security in the EU. Thank [00:16:30] you, sir.”
Agriculture (green)
- “Thank you. Chair. The self regulation plays a very important role in facilitating investments and to increase European interconnectivity and developing necessary infrastructure to reach the energy transition. We therefore positively welcome the increase in resources destined to the CEF, and we hope that these are not reduced further in negotiating the new MFF. The amendments to the proposal go in the right direction of favouring the transparency of actions and strengthening the involvement of Member States by ensuring at the same time flexibility and simplification regarding transport. We welcome the inclusion in the regulation of strategic cross-border networks that are under our territory. These are important in strengthening European interconnectivity and the TNT network on Energy. Italy believes that we should prioritise funding common projects of common and mutual interest, as laid out in the TNT regulation, as well as other amendments that would reflect this approach. Regarding the funding for the next seven year period, we believe it would be useful to establish some maximum thresholds for a given projects. We regret that we do not have a specific quota for cross-border projects on renewable energies as we requested. Although reference to the funds in line with the current CEF two is in line with our position. We hope that this aspect may be further fine tuned in the negotiations on the financial aspects of the ad hoc working party on the MFF. In the spirit of compromise, however, we can support the partial general approach proposed by the presidency. Thank you.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Our farmers do make an indispensable contribution to preserving the environment when it comes to the fruit and vegetable sector. We need to simplify the environmental requirements. But I would like to thank the presidency for having suggested in the document that we should have a series of interventions to simplify the eco schemes, because in Italy we have found that this results in a great deal of a red tape, which further goes against the wish to simplify. Let me conclude by saying that our farmers need to have certainty. They need to have confidence in the Commission, the Parliament and in us in the Council. I think, therefore, it would be useful to clarify exactly what has happened over the past eight years in Europe. There have been a number of points which have been raised by the media in recent days, particularly as regards the way in which Commissioner Timmermans implemented those policies, which directly affect farming with possible conditioning conditions which have been raised in the press. And that is why we have to ensure that the Commission can do as much as possible to ensure that our farmers understand what has actually happened, because I think a great deal of them fail to understand the logic of what has Mr. Holland.”
Agriculture (green)
- “Thank you, president. And thank you, Christoph, for the simplification package moving very much in the right direction. We support it. We are very happy that included in the package. There are proposals put forward by Italy and have now been included. We think this is not yet sufficient, though, for us to reach what we see as being a strategic goal, that of ensuring that our productiveness Is properly optimized at a time when Europe can't shoulder all the burdens. Vis a vis climate policy. We are trying to be pragmatic about converting our agriculture sector so that it will become resilient. And that is something that has been very difficult. If you talk about the data from farmers, it's quite clear that over the last 30 years, there has been a lot of legislation that has had a huge impact, and we have to look at that, particularly considering our competitors approach where the policies have been to increase productiveness. So European food security is at risk, I believe, and I think that that is one of our absolute priorities in order to achieve that, though, as you said quite rightly, Christoph, there's no time to lose. But at the same time, considering that we seem to be centralizing choices on agriculture, and I think that's vital, nonetheless, we haven't to we mustn't give up the fact that it's only this council configuration that has the kind of expertise whereby we can guide this legislation so that it will be successful and the strategy will be successful, as colleagues have already said. Then it is absolutely vital that it's here that we analyse these sectoral packages, obviously in coordination with the main council as well. Thank you.”
Agriculture (green)
- “32:20 – 16:33:17): thank you, chair. It's the also thanks. France, we welcome the International Space Summit that's taking place in Paris. We support the initiative and believe it can effectively contribute to reinforcing the European dimension in space cooperation.
I'd like to link this up to the upcoming launch of COPUS via Italy, the 06/10/2026. Our presidency will be looking at 3 priorities, widening membership capacity building, especially for the global South and the promotion of Unispace 4 in 2027.
This is an important opportunity to reinforce multilateral governance of space and the principle of Pacific use of outer space. We, count on the participation of all member states, including Austria. We'd like to thank you for the contribution that you have announced. Thank you very much.”
EU competences on space policy
- “Gracia, thank you very much. Marc. Thank you. French delegation for raising something which seeks to make sure that Europe can continue to choose how it produces and what it is going to eat. Thanks [00:03:00] to our agricultural world, the current international situation requires us to pay specific attention to the economic situations and security of food supply. And for that reason, and in order to obtain the environmental and climate change objectives, these have to be taken into consideration at the same time as making sure that our farms can remain competitive. The derogation of the GC does exactly what it does, what is required in the cyclical situation. We therefore very much support your [00:03:30] proposal. The spirit of your idea is following all the principles that we have subscribed to. You need to be followed, but we need to remain pragmatic so that we can take into account the cyclical situation that history has placed us in front of. So not only do we support the derogation GHC eight, in the spirit of what Marc was saying, we would also call upon you to look at GC seven, which is something [00:04:00] that we have been asking for as necessary in recent months in the light of the climate challenges that we've seen officers faced with more recently. Thank you.”
Agriculture (green)
- “Thank you, Chairman. Thank you for having put this on today's agenda. The directive on soil health is very important. And thank you, Commissioner, for [00:22:00] your presentation. This is a delicate matter. You can't just leave something like this to the environmental sector. Given how important farm sector operators have in this field and also how important they are in playing a role to not only provide food but improve and look after soil. Farmers are the most concerned when it comes to soil quality. Therefore, they are the most useful environmental [00:22:30] actors when it comes to that. And in strategic documents, quite clearly already been the case that the Cap has always put these aspects into such discussion. And we would have appreciate if the Commission had given more highlighted importance to the cap in their own proposals. Now, on what you asked us, Chairman, will we be in favour of the common monitoring framework for this? However, we don't understand why the [00:23:00] monitoring systems that already exist in members aren't taken into account given existing cap requirements. If every new changes bring in new monitoring systems, it means more and more costs, more red tape for business, for administration.
[00:23:18] And we just adding layer upon layer of complication. So my proposal would be that monitoring is all very well, but there shouldn't be increased [00:23:30] burdens on businesses with strategic plans to reduce administrative burdens and ensure synergy. We need to have the right approach there. Secondly, there are good experiences in the past of things that have already worked in this area and they should be put into the strategic plans and kept there and built upon. Farmers can only benefit from this directive if they're able to tell consumers that what they're producing, what consumers [00:24:00] get, come from healthy soils. And that can be done if existing data banks are used to ensure that it's easier to bring in a certification system. If we putatively choose to do that in a way that doesn't require new monitoring models before that's possible. I agree with a lot of the points that have been raised by Poland and indeed by other member states who have asked for more room for manoeuvre, given the particular [00:24:30] state's particular needs. We've been doing a pretty good job protecting our soils for quite some time now. Thank you.”
Soil protection policy
- “Believes that we should focus on high risk sectors which have a high return on investment. The European funds can be used as a catalyst and can leverage different private partnerships. We have to bolster regional ecosystems, which will lead to cross-border partnerships with research centres, institutions and universities, which can increase the transfer of knowledge. Against this backdrop, we believe that the air is really important. However, we shouldn't forget about its governance and ensure that we can create synergies within the European Competitors Fund so that we do not overlap policy areas. We also believe that we should integrate national systems to ensure that we can really tap into the potential of these tools. We would also like to say that in line with the simplification and effectiveness objectives, that will lead to a more competitive Europe, Italy appreciates the fact that we want to integrate the ECF with the framework. However, we also believe that it is essential to look at the specificities of the policy windows to avoid that research lags behind horizon. Europe, in conclusion, has to be independent and should focus on research and innovation. Thank you very much.”
EU research funding
- “Thank You very much, chair, for having us talk about this very sensitive point. Before I answer the questions, I'd just like to make 2 comments. 1st of all, the Italian government believes that the current regulatory framework based on international law instruments, member states and the case law of the ECJ and the Court of Human Rights already balances the values, the rights and the interests at play. So we don't think that there's any urgency to change this. Secondly, I'd like to mention that the issues such as family law fall within exclusive competence of member states, which means that any attempt to harmonize this law at EU level becomes very sensitive and delicate. Now getting to the questions. 1st of all, a very critical part of the proposal, in our opinion, is the European certificate of parenthood. We believe that this goes beyond the ideal of free movement and contrast with the principle of proportionality. In fact, there isn't even the express, exemption of public policy grounds. In Italy, parenthood stemming from surrogacy is illegal and can be prosecuted by law even if it is committed by, an Italian citizen abroad. We need to have more recognition of the operation of public policy exemptions. So the restrictive, approach is not sufficient, and we need to keep in mind the high interest of the child in the state establishing parenthood abroad. The Italian courts, with full respect of the Strasbourg court's decision, means that we need to have a case by case assessment by the national judge to guarantee the interests of the child. For the 2nd question, when it comes to the technical discussions, we believe that it's important to take into consideration express request from delegations to take into consideration the interests expressed by the various national legal orders. Thank you.”
Regulation of surrogate pregnancy
- “For farmers. The green transition, if implemented correctly, will be an opportunity to diversify income, provide multifunctionality, and create new value chains based on the integrated re-use of farm waste byproducts and production waste destined to bioproducts, biomaterials, bio energy and bio fertilizers. Regarding this point, I would like to recall the importance of digestate to replace mineral fertilizers as part of the new green architecture. We believe that also partially organic holdings must be held to account and must comply with protection practices, as recalled in the Cap simplification package. I would finally like to make a general observation. In a global context that is characterized by instability. At the moment, the cap should play an even bigger role compared to the past in order to ensure food security. The current proposal, however, tends to marginalize the cap to a role that isn't its own. As we have stated in the Joint Declaration, together with another 16 member states, we therefore call for the Commission to make some steps back so that we can put agriculture at the centre of European policies. Thank you.”
Agriculture (green)
- “We need to relaunch the European automotive industry. We also need to act with regard to our primary industries and when it comes to steel and chemicals and other sectors as well, we need to have a substantial revision of the ETS mechanism for these purposes. For the moment, this is seen as a taxation on businesses, its duty being imposed on them. We need to cooperate. On the sebum, which is insufficient so far. It's a contradiction in terms that we have these measures. And on the one hand we open up an avenue towards financial speculation. And on the other hand, we're trying to encourage other continents to decarbonize. I think we should have a substantial organic revision of both the ETS and the Cbam in concert. And finally, on the chemicals industry, Italy is on the way towards green chemicals. We welcome the Chemicals Alliance, the fact that we are a member of the board, and we want to introduce the principle of European preference, which could be extended to other sectors in future as well. Europe's action needs to be progressive in strategic sectors, and this could be extended to many other sectors in future as well. Thank you.”
Extension of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme
- “Thank you very much, chair. We too would like to thank the presidency for the work that has been done on this file. On the basis of the positive developments that we have seen in the text that's been distributed in the room today. We can say that we support this fair compromise between the need to simplify, on the one hand, which companies are asking us for and the need to ensure that they are effective controls, fighting against the abuse of laws and the need to really protect workers rights. In conjunction with Belgium and France. We have a joint declaration which should be registered in the minutes of this council meeting, and we feel that there have been some positive developments in this text. This is all going in the same direction, which is the objectives of the Single Market strategy, which was published yesterday. It calls on us to achieve results that are as tangible as possible. Thank you.”
"Buy European" provisions
- “Thank you very much to the presidency for having. Come up with this very significant and useful agenda for us. We would like to support Vice President Séjourné. Now, I have been here for the past four years, and I always want to speak in a very transparent way. The IAA cannot enter into force in three years time. Because there won't be anything left to protect. By then, if we do that, then we should call it the industrial. Decelerator act. I mean. We'd have to change the title. We have to understand the world we're living in. If the EU and the Commission and ourselves have to discuss. I don't know, ten omnibus packages on simplification. That's already a contradiction in terms. Ten packages on simplification. Only one has been implemented. And if we start talking about the CO2, bam ETS, the Made in Europe concept which cannot become made in the world. Obviously, if we're talking about all of these things and a whole revision procedure. Then we will have to understand that we have made a mistake in terms of our economic policy, our industrial policy, all of these policies. And then in order to revise all of that, we would have to take a certain amount of time to do that.”
Overall simplification of regulation in the EU
- “Thank you, chair. Italy, shares the concern presented by Bulgaria in connection with the current geopolitical context and market instability, which could have repercussions on the spending capacity of agricultural businesses and consequently on the progress of strategic plans. On many occasions, Italy has expressed interest in applying the n plus 3 rule to the 20 23, 20 27 programming, aligning the provisions applied in agriculture with those enforced for structural funds. We therefore support the request for derogation to the application of the decommitment rule for the calendar year 2026 with the hope that the difficulties we're experiencing will be resolved as soon as possible and the consequences of these tensions, which are strongly felt in the agri food supply chain remain limited. Thank you.”
Agricultural funding
- “Thank you very much, Mary. Now I speak Italian. I would like to thank Commissioner Serafin. We've met with him in on various occasions during this period. And I would have to say that this framework that has been presented today is one that is convincing, but only partially because we've explained. We have been told that there is a simplification, but we don't really see it. Especially with regard to the national and regional partnership plans. This seems very dubious to us and perhaps it runs counter to the goal. Um, we talked about two central issues, two topics which we would like to repeat, and we'd like to repeat this in very clear terms. The cap and more generally the agricultural policy. It's really not a question of resources. Is it a question of choices. And we keep thinking that the agricultural policies is one of the policies, one of the pillars of European policies. And if we think this way, then we would have to do some thinking as to the proposal that has been put on the table, we feel that it falls short, especially with regard to the message that it conveys at a moment in time where we have farmers that are already calling into question these impositions, we're running in the opposite direction. We're going in the opposite direction that the sector is asking us to do. And then in terms of cohesion policy, where we do recognize the efforts that have been made by the commission. Vice President feito, with regard to the. The commitments that to be made, um, and we've talked about it also in this forum, but we have to be very, very clear. Conditionality is going to become a negative element for cohesion policy. That's a risk because cohesion policy. And if we think about the purpose as enshrined in the treaty, the idea was to to transcend differences, a region to region.”
Agricultural funding
- “Thank you. President. Thank you. Colleagues who joined me in signing this document. This document is aimed at supporting the vision of Commissioner Hansen, Commissioner Hadis and Vice President Feto coordinating responsibilities for fisheries and indeed, the whole European Commission, whose goal is to ensure that we manage to reinforce the role of Europe, ensuring that to do that, we need to take into account the fact, I believe that if we can unite around a single strategy, then it will be easier for us to plan and implement plans that strengthen the EU, and going down a different path would would weaken the EU. I would express a concern which Copa-cogeca shares, as does the majority of European farmers and fishers, that there's a risk that the idea we've heard about of having a single fund and a national plan to replace the current approach, where we have separate funds for the Cap and CFP, would actually weaken Europe in a strategic area and would lead to lack of efficiency and consistency between the policies and the risk of losing the flexibility that's necessary to actually meet the requirements of both sectors. The Cap is an essential Central to all of the EU has been since 1962 to guaranteeing competitiveness of the agricultural sector. The fact that it is common in dimension means it's protected the European market, single market, food security and sovereignty, rural areas and provided income support for farmers. Weakening the way in which it works by changing the way in which it's operated, and by handing back the design of plans to member states, together with the Commission, would weaken the way in which it worked. And the founding fathers of Europe felt this was the correct path.”
Agricultural funding
- “And this means that you need to have a tailor made policies for regions. And this is not something that, uh, should be subsumed to general conditionality. And so. The multi-level governance issue is something that could be essential. And it has been in the past, and it's given the regions a role, and it should be the same as the role given to cities. We need to make sure that we have a territorial cohesion policy that is as complete as possible on competitiveness. Well, I fully agree. We do have a challenge ahead and there are companies that are facing challenges they need to do way they have to deal with um, uh, taxation and also, um, red tape. Uh, and we feel that the taxation, uh, suggested is really, um, sending a message which runs counter to what we aim to do. We if we look at this initiative. It looks like we're going in the opposite direction to the expectations, but also, um, the opposite direction of our, um, resolve. I know that it's been very difficult to to come up with this proposal. And Commissioner Saruman has done his utmost to present us a framework which is clear. Um, and so we're at the beginning of the debate, and I think it's very important to be clear amongst ourselves on these issues. And I would also add and conclude by sharing this thought, global Europe is something that leaves us a bit confused, at least in the way it's been proposed. We would rather have a framework which would be clearer. And we would also want to avoid watering down of the priorities as set forth. Thank you.”
Cohesion and rural funding
- “Thank you very much Matthias. Thank you very much for having highlighted the importance of that. So once again, you very much for having afforded so much time to this topic. Let me start by giving you two pieces of information which are exemplary.
In 2027, Confindustria, that is Italy's association which welcomes all of the industrial organizations, forecast that forty-seven percent of the necessary qualifications will not be covered. And why is that? Because the educational system does not train students to obtain these qualifications.
In the last few weeks, I went to Campania, one of the regions in Italy that has the highest unemployment rates in Italy. I went to Caivano and some companies told me that they're looking for four hundred young people. They cannot find these four hundred young people because the educational system cannot train them and give them these qualifications.
This is really a big issue and therefore I would like to submit three proposals to the Presidency. I believe it is important to exchange best practices across countries to learn about them, to be enriched by their national experiences. We then believe that we should invest European funds when it comes to bolstering VET programs.
We also have to increase agreements between VET institutes across member states to develop partnerships which work. When it comes to the heading document, I would like to quote one item which is quite important: a business should be a place where we can train people.
We have undertaken a structural reform which ensures that businesses and schools work hand in hand. We have built a supply chain where technological institutes, vocational training institutes, and companies are all integrated within this supply chain. The syllabus is defined by the school and by the company jointly. Teachers can also be active workers.
Moreover, we have also bolstered and strengthened STEM topics. We have also rolled out soft skills modules and we have increased language proficiency classes.
When it comes to how this sector isn't as attractive for female pupils, which is a problem related to the gender gap, what we have done is we have reformed the teaching of STEM by looking at what is underground. As my Polish colleague said, we have to ensure that STEM modules are made interesting and that means that we have to enact a cultural paradigm.
We have to ensure that parents and society understand how STEM is not a manual profession or manual task but is a way into the future. We also have to ensure that these centers, these schools also double as research centers to be able to strengthen that.
In conclusion, allow me to say that we should all be aware that the VET system is at the heart of an entire production system which is just as important as the universities and that is why we have to ensure that there is a paradigm shift within society and allow society to understand that by investing in VET we will be able to create well paid jobs for our young students and that will increase the competitiveness across the country. Thank you.”
Focus of EU policy on education (shaping workers vs citizens)
- “Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and our thanks to Portugal. We enthusiastically agree with the proposal to regulate this at European level. Today we use drones assimilated to aircraft. And obviously there's a technological innovation going on which will support environmental sustainability in the use of plant health products. And also drones can reach difficult to cultivate areas in the EU. We need to focus on making this sort of thing easier, and to do this as soon as possible. In fact, urgently, it will permit our farmers to save money, to improve their health, to produce more and to maintain more extreme land parcels which would normally cost too much to cultivate.”
Digital and precision farming
- “First, I would like to thank Minister Eric for having a table this item to the agenda and for having really superbly organized the conference, which took place on the 3rd of November in Berlin. And Vice President Sojourner also took part in the conference. This shows a common and uniting will to move in the right direction. Italy is one of the signatories of this declaration, because it firmly believes in the importance of industry when it comes to the growth of Europe, from an economic and social point of view. Indeed, we cannot become an outdoor museum for rich Asian tourists. No, we have to preserve our industrial competitiveness and that is why we need to reduce our supplier lock in. We have to ensure to have commercial agreements when it comes to rare metals, for example, and earths such as the ones which have been outlined in the security package and in the resource EU. We have to make the most of public procurement and the national and European funds to ensure that we can show that we can promote industry in Europe. We expect a lot from the next Industrial Accelerator Act. Lastly, it is of fundamental importance to simplifying and reducing the existing legislation. So yes, we have to reduce red tape, but we have to ensure there is deregulation. And this has to be in line with the Commission's proposal. Thank you.”
"Buy European" provisions
- “Thank you very much, Chairman. Good morning, Commissioner. Good morning to all delegations. Italy is fully committed to the development of fixed and mobile new generation networks. As you can see from the strategies we have been developing since 2015 to promote supply and demand, We appreciate the work which has been done so that these negotiations can move forward quickly in order to ensure that [00:10:00] we have consistency with other rules in the same area, in particular the European Code for Electronic Communications. Secondly, we also need to draw on best practices at a national level. For example, the standard four month period for authorisations should not undermine the shorter time periods which some countries already have, such as Italy. Thirdly, we have to promote the reporting on [00:10:30] the current regulation without placing an excessive burden on member states. And then finally, we have to look at measures to reduce the administrative burden upon tower companies as crucial operators for the infrastructure in some member states, such as Italy. Thank you.”
5G
- “Thank you very much, president. And thank you very much to Commissioner Rosewall for the presentation. We fully appreciate the European strategy for the Academy Award presented by the Commission in November. It gives us the requirements for decarbonisation and strategic autonomy. What we can underscore, as Italy is the need to promote the sectors of excellence and also recycling, looking at minimum quotas for European content. And we hope that this aspect will be taken into consideration in the um, Industrial Acceleration Act that the Commission will present. We also need to protect ourselves against unfair competition. Uh, and we we are looking at the reduction of these types of plastics. Uh, and we need to move towards bio based products. So we need to move towards a new investments as stimulating financing and investment using European competitiveness funds. Thank you.”
EU policy towards plastics
- “Thank you very much indeed, Madam Chair, for having organised a discussion on [00:19:30] this topic, which will also be covered by a set of conclusions that should be approved today. Particularly interesting, because it has to be seen against the background of strategic issues such as the decarbonisation of the economy, energy efficiency, climate change and the green transition, but also because it focuses on collective bargaining, which is so close to the heart of this council on the questions of collective bargaining. Dealing with the strategic issues which I have cited, can play a key role in helping us to achieve the Green Deal objectives and moving [00:20:00] towards a neutral and inclusive economy, which is in line with our climate goals. Firstly, collective bargaining can promote models which are more flexible to enable workers to have easier trips to work, which will of course have an impact on transport and pollution. And here smart working has opened the road. Furthermore, collective bargaining can also explore new frontiers between welfare and worker [00:20:30] well-being and the environment. For example, recognising the benefits of those workers who have a more responsible behaviour Ves and vis a vis the environment to explore less harmful ways of working from the environmental point of view. We started doing this in Italy to try to establish more flexible ways of working, which will also help us to outlaw ways of working which could be [00:21:00] harmful to worker health, for example, at the hottest periods of the year, or in any other adverse climate conditions, which could make it dangerous for workers to come to work. In concrete terms, this therefore means that collective bargaining will take account of these external factors in all decisions made on the workplace. On the second question, one first aspect should be to focus on networking and sharing of initiatives and experiences of which have been [00:21:30] initiated at member state level for a number of years now in Italy. We have introduced incentives to try to ensure that welfare is taken into account in all collective bargaining, and this could also apply to green collective bargaining. We could, for example, make greater use of European funds and programmes to provide incentives for national green collective bargaining to focus on all of these issues and under the auspices of the social pillar, particularly when it comes to working conditions. [00:22:00] As social protection, collective bargaining should represent a real part of the system, and that is why we should support and develop them further, thanks to the traditional instruments that the union has at its disposal.”
Regulation of teleworking labour conditions
- “Good morning. My thanks go to the presidency and the commissioner, as well as everyone else for this discussion, which is coming at such a difficult time for the European Union's future. Faced with military tensions at our border, economic turbulence, digital change, the effects of climate change, we're seeing we're faced with major risk, that is, that Europe becomes pessimistic and sees culture as being ephemeral, a luxury, something we should only look at once. We have regained economic stability and growth. But I would say the opposite is true. Culture is the compass whereby Europe can be aware of its important role in the world and a pathway for being more effective globally. First of all, investing in culture reinforces the sense of the common identity of European peoples and the civic conscience of our citizens. It's a shield for democratic liberalism. We need to have conditions to promote peace and dialogue for our partners, starting with the enlarged Mediterranean and Africa. Plus, culture is a tool of an economic sector fundamental for the EU. The creative sector is roughly 3.9% of the value added of the European Union, and it employs around 8 million people. It's a driver for socio economic growth and jobs, particularly for young people. As such, we should state strongly culture is an essential public good. It's vital to underpin the values of the EU. Italy obviously is convinced, a convinced supporter of president von der Leyen's initiative to give a more strategic focus to European programmes in support of cultural heritage through the compass of culture.”
EU and national cultural identities
- “Thank you. Chairman. We support the proposals put forward by Romania, Slovakia and Finland. We too think the time has come to check bear populations. They are in a favourable conservation status. In order to update the UN annexes four and five of the Habitats Directive, we need [00:28:30] to ensure that we have a balanced co-existence between human beings, farms and large carnivores. We need to step up regional cooperation when it comes to the managing research and monitoring here, in order to come up with joint management strategies. Thank you very much.”
Nature protection and restoration in the EU
- “Thank you. Chair. Women's participation in public life. [00:15:30] In order to make this a full reality requires renewed effort. And in order to achieve this, we need to continue a concerted effort to raise awareness, both at personal and group level, of the role that women could play and have played in boosting economic growth and in society. We need role models to be put forward, [00:16:00] and we need to make sure we recognize the value that women have had over the course of history. We must debunk the stereotypes that say that they were always on the sidelines of major events. That's why just recently in Italy, I've just launched a project called Women of Italy, and we aim to have a year long process involving cultural institutions, local administrations and associations and authorities to tell the stories of women [00:16:30] who have not been heard about before in various different areas, but who have nonetheless contributed to make Italy into the country it is today. Perhaps Europe could think about something similar, Women of Europe, as a project and involve many stakeholders to promote the female actors at different levels who have helped to make Europe what it is today. We believe that women's participation in public life has to be coupled with their with a, with [00:17:00] cultural activity so that we can, as I said, debunk these stereotypes and show the impact they have had. And by the way, don't forget that since 2022, the top position in the Italian government has been held by a woman.
[00:17:14] Finally, president Giorgia meloni. So we believe that she can be an example and inspiration for young women and girls in Italy. Unfortunately, we see that there are still many sexist attacks, [00:17:30] both in the press and online against women in leadership. We've seen some extremely violent words and actions in our country. This means that the European Union can play an increasingly important role in supporting women's talent and female leadership. Allowing women to make use of all their potential to build the future that we all want. The, um, presidency of the G7 for [00:18:00] 2024 is held by Italy, and we aim to have a cross-cutting debate on all areas of work, from education to labour, the environment and digital innovation, health and culture. There will be a ministerial meeting in Matera, Italy, from the 4th to 6th of October, focusing on female women's empowerment as well as male on female violence and how to combat this. We [00:18:30] have made a lot of progress in our country as around Europe, but there's a great deal of work still to be done. So we hope that the G7 will also contribute to improving people's awareness and helping us take the necessary actions to achieve our goal. Thank you.”
Gender roles, equality and inclusion
- “Thank you. Chairman. Well, first of all, we would like to thank the commission for this proposal for the revision of the Waste Directive. And we would like to thank the presidency for all the work done over the past few months. The sustainability of the textile sector was one of the topics dealt with by the Italian Presidency of the G7. The final communiqué of the G7 environment ministers does contain a commitment from the Alliance for Resource Efficiency to work on a voluntary agenda on textiles and the circular fashion by the end of this year, and involving institutions, businesses and stakeholders to take significant steps towards transforming this industry into something sustainable, ethical and circular on a global scale. We reiterate our conviction that extended producer responsibility is an effective tool in order to guarantee the proper end of life management of fashion products, and we would like to stress the importance of promoting the prevention and reuse of textile products. We need to invest in new technologies and recycling processes now in the context of extended producer responsibility, in order to reduce the environmental impact and lengthen life cycles. The environmental contribution should also be directed towards research and development, which will apply to ecodesign and the study of technologies for the selection and recycling of the textile components and fibres. We also appreciate the President's and Commission's efforts here in taking into account the key role played by the various social economy actors in the management of end of life textiles. We have to strike a balance between the necessary tracking of flows and the administrative burden this would entail. We also appreciate the focus on tackling the phenomenon of fast fashion on food waste, in order to move closer to the SDG of reducing food waste by 50%. We need to improve production patterns and also we need to change consumption patterns. The objective here, when it comes to reducing food waste, must be an instrument which we use in order to promote these changes we have. Therefore, from the very outset supported ambitious targets, but at the same time they have to be realistic. They have to be achievable. To this regard, we would repeat our concern about the proposed targets, especially with a view to the negotiations with the European Parliament. At any rate, we think it's essential to keep the primary sector outside the scope of application of these targets because it has specific characteristics which do not allow for an extension of the approach for transformation, distribution and final consumption. Thank you.”
Ecodesign & durability
- “Thank you very much, president. Italy supports the Non-paper from the Belgian delegation, and we support the concerns raised about the achievement of targets for renewable fuels of non-biological engine. They're particularly burdensome for countries with limited renewable resources and where hydrogen green hydrogen production is not yet competitive. So we're not in favour of the top down approach. We agree with Belgium. We need to take a pragmatic approach to low emission hydrogen under red three. We believe that a gradual transition is essential, enabling the decarbonisation of Europe's energy intensive industries, protecting their competitiveness and fostering the development of the hydrogen supply chain. Thank you.”
Low-carbon hydrogen
- “They are the main guardians of our regions and the environment, and that's why the Cap is responsible for promoting economic, environmental and social sustainability. And with that in mind, it's very important that we promote special products and specialised products. Farmers require training for management in order to really take all of the opportunities available on the market, for example through income diversification, which would allow them to create new value chains, as we've seen in integrated reuse of agricultural residues and waste, reusing byproducts, for example, and promoting the use of fertilizers as an alternative to chemical fertilizers. And then on the topic of protecting agricultural incomes, we think that it's important that we have a discussion about creating a risk management system at European level, for example, by ensuring access to a reinsurance fund which would be activated at EU level. This would absorb those peaks of damage that may affect one member state. Another important aspect to consider is scientific research. This can help us respond to the growing challenges posed by climate change and the spread of animal and plant diseases. And with that in mind, we'd like to see more headway made in negotiations with the European Parliament on NTS, which represent a strategic opportunity to improve sustainability and competitiveness of agriculture. Innovation, training and technical assistance are also needed, and this will allow us to translate scientific results into tangible advantages in the agricultural sector. And by way of conclusion, when it comes to international trade agreements, our leitmotif must be reciprocity. European agri food systems must not be put at a competitive disadvantage, or be forced to be subject to unfair competition from third countries.”
Agricultural funding
- “Italy is pleased with the result. Following the approval of the Commission's proposal to modify regulation 2017 745. Since this standard entered into force on the 26th of May 2021, Italy has supported all initiatives aiming to ensure the availability of health care technologies which are needed to protect health and security for the citizens of the EU. We have requested a modification of the regulation to allow for the extension of the transition phase to ensure the certification or recertification of medical devices in alignment with the new standards. But without Renouncing the crucial security requirements. Synergy between the Commission and the member states has meant we have been able to act swiftly to make up for the real danger of a shortage of medical devices on the European market, and we are very pleased with this. We are convinced that the certification provided by a notified authority will provide the foundation for an effective quality assurance system, for security, and for the performance of devices made available on the EU market. We believe that a quality assurance period and the increase of clinical trials will mean more innovation in biomedical technologies. Italy believes it's important to continue close cooperation with the Commission to find joint solutions and simplify the complex procedures of the regulation, which in many cases make it difficult to apply. Nonetheless, this should not be at the expense of the level of safety and the performance of the medical devices. We must make a common effort in terms of human resources and funding to ensure the regulation is effectively implemented, particularly when it comes to the European database EU. Damned. Thank you.”
Medical devices
- “Thank you chairman. Italy is very closely following the discussion on governance and the Framework Programme for competitiveness. We welcome this require to harmonise rules within the ECF through the single rulebook, to ensure coherence and consistency across the various tools, and to tackle the risk of fragmentation. We realise how important it is to have tools which will ensure that research gets to the market. We understand that the approach of the European Commission to bring in a single programme for the policy windows. It is essential to guarantee independence of research. As for internal debates, we're still having discussions domestically when it comes to the future governance of the four policy windows, we would tend towards a single work program for each window we need to look that we have the two program forms ECF and Horizon Europe. We need to respect the priorities of each within their own budgets. Fundamental research and collaborative research and innovation with high risk technology is the driving force for future success in Europe, and cannot be looked at purely in terms of immediate short term economic return. We have the initiative based on the articles in the treaty, which will promote the development of scientific and technological development, helping, uh, the European Competitiveness Fund and we need to work hand in hand and not in a subordinate fashion with full respect for governance. The line to take is to have separate operational approaches so as to ensure strategic and consistent integration. The definition of research and innovation priorities needs to be anchored on the basis of scientific and technological excellence assessed by experts. Quality and efficiency of European policies in research and innovation depend on the commitment and involvement of the scientific community. It's not just a question of consulting them, but they should be structurally involved. We feel that over the next few weeks we're going to need to continue to discuss this topic. This is important for the future of research. We need to look at European added value and the investment journey must be really scientifically based. Thank you.”
Research priorities within the EU
- “Thank you very much chairman. Thank [00:10:30] you Commissioner. Thank you. Portugal and the others who brought this to our notice and particularly Portugal. We completely support you. The Russian aggression against Ukraine has had a very heavy impact on aquaculture, on fishing and in general on the economy. Costs have gone up. The measures that were taken on in 2022 using 20 2250. The commission. The commission took measures that mitigated [00:11:00] some of the effects imposed upon us by Russia. But this is still going on, and these complex critical burdens still weigh upon our sectors. Therefore, the measures must continue at least until the 30th of December, 2024. I'd also like to thank the Netherlands for doing another point to our notice, which has to be how workers are treated in the processing and aquaculture and indeed fishing sector in some [00:11:30] countries, particularly the Chinese, including on their fishing vessels. We need to be firm, we need to be effective, we need to make sure that things that come into our market are high quality, including when it comes to the rights of workers. Quality is nutrition, but quality is also about how you look after people and quality rights for those operating in a sector. Thank you”
Funding for fisheries and aquaculture
- “We need to relaunch the European automotive industry. We also need to act with regard to our primary industries and when it comes to steel and chemicals and other sectors as well, we need to have a substantial revision of the ETS mechanism for these purposes. For the moment, this is seen as a taxation on businesses, its duty being imposed on them. We need to cooperate. On the sebum, which is insufficient so far. It's a contradiction in terms that we have these measures. And on the one hand we open up an avenue towards financial speculation. And on the other hand, we're trying to encourage other continents to decarbonize. I think we should have a substantial organic revision of both the ETS and the Cbam in concert. And finally, on the chemicals industry, Italy is on the way towards green chemicals. We welcome the Chemicals Alliance, the fact that we are a member of the board, and we want to introduce the principle of European preference, which could be extended to other sectors in future as well. Europe's action needs to be progressive in strategic sectors, and this could be extended to many other sectors in future as well. Thank you.”
Extension of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme · Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
- “Thank you very much, president. And thank you very much to Commissioner Rosewall for the presentation. We fully appreciate the European strategy for the Academy Award presented by the Commission in November. It gives us the requirements for decarbonisation and strategic autonomy. What we can underscore, as Italy is the need to promote the sectors of excellence and also recycling, looking at minimum quotas for European content. And we hope that this aspect will be taken into consideration in the um, Industrial Acceleration Act that the Commission will present. We also need to protect ourselves against unfair competition. Uh, and we we are looking at the reduction of these types of plastics. Uh, and we need to move towards bio based products. So we need to move towards a new investments as stimulating financing and investment using European competitiveness funds. Thank you.”
Circular economy
- “Thank you. Definition of high standards for animal welfare is an important and responsible challenge that we need to pick up ASAP. [00:19:30] However, past experience does show us that this will recall will require farmers to introduce changes. So we have to take into account that in meeting these goals, we'll have to look at the socio economic impacts on actual farm management and infrastructure, plus on the welfare of pets. We do think it's very important to encourage information campaigns on the responsible purchasing and ownership [00:20:00] of pets. Thank you.”
EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers
- “Thank you. Chairman. We really much appreciate the strong role played, played by the Spanish presidency in getting this to this stage today, [00:26:00] where we're ready for a general approach. We really very much appreciate the importance of this. It there are still some points remaining to be addressed in Trilogues. And we would like that the position of the Italian delegation, which should be circulated, is put in the minutes. This is a case whereby if we get it wrong, it will impact upon European competitiveness of our industry. We [00:26:30] need ad hoc financial instruments to facilitate the transition towards net zero. Now, we're not yet at the stage where we have real joint sovereign fund, but we should ensure a link with the steppe platform. We need to really focus upon the principle of technology neutrality. It's important also to refer to an envisaged expansion of the scope of zero emissions technology. And then when it comes to sustainable [00:27:00] fuels. Italy feels it's a good idea to include biofuels also for the road transport sector. Then on the point on auctions, we agree with the general idea of focusing public resources on Made in Europe products, and we welcome a greater flexibility for the member states, which is in the text. We would also call for greater discretion for the Member States when assessing when any any bids are [00:27:30] out of proportion. Thank you.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Thank you, Peter. I would like to wish the Swedish presidency all the best. In particular, bearing in mind the international context following the Russian aggression in Ukraine, it means that we need to act firmly. And that's why we support Sweden's accession to NAITO now. When it comes to animal welfare, it's a complex situation. European legislation thus far hasn't provided uniform conditions across all economic operators, so new provisions need to take into account the specificities and the production realities in each member state. This is a very sensitive subject for us in Italy. In our strategic plan, we have provided for specific measures to promote animal welfare. I'd like to thank Maria for all her efforts. We welcome the Declaration on Animal Transport presented by Portugal. Thank you.”
EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers
- “Thank you very much, president. Good morning to you. Wish you all the very best. And also to the Commissioner. [00:33:30] Compliments to your team for the excellent work that you've done and the results that you have obtained in the negotiations. We support all three of these proposals, which we think will, uh, strengthen and uniform size, the current legal framework for road safety. We welcome the proposed revision on of the regulation on the minimum requirements for brakes and rests in occasional passenger transport services. These provisions will increase [00:34:00] the working conditions of drivers, guaranteeing at the same time efficient and high quality services for passengers. And that's a shot in the arm for the sector, which really needs it. We're also in favour of the driving licence directive proposal. The new things that have been included there will make it possible for us to share, uh, improved road safety objectives and at the same time guarantee free movement of citizens throughout the European Union. We're in favour of harmonisation [00:34:30] of the minimum standards for driver skill sets and knowledge bases, uh, and particularly the requirement of road safety for the most vulnerable road users on checking, uh, mental and physical health, their health checks. We take take notes of the text presented by the presidency, which represents the best possible compromise. But at the same time, we reiterate our serious concerns about [00:35:00] the self-assessment system. In the light of our experience in Italy, we stress that medical checks continue to represent the best way of raising levels of safety on our roads. And finally, we're very much in favour of the directive on cross-border exchange of information on road safety related traffic offences. It is vital that those who, uh, um, violate the Highway Code rules in another member states should be punished, just as resident citizens [00:35:30] are. Just to keep you updated on what is being done by the Italian government has been doing since our last meeting in road safety, we've got in 2022, we had 3159 deaths on the Italian roads. And so we are putting together a new highway code to have more controls and sanctions, road awareness raising in schools. Uh, um, um, temporary removal of licences for [00:36:00] people using smartphones, more serious rules for people who are repeat cases of drunk driving. And we'll use an alt lock system for uh, uh, stopping people for driving if they are repeat offenders. And we're also investing in life saving rail guards and more strict rules for scooters, which can even travel as fast as 50 or 60km an hour in Italy, which is problematic. In the first few [00:36:30] months of, uh, this year, we've already seen increased levels of controls and reduced levels of accidents and victims. So thank you very much. There's a long way to go, but the direction we're going in is the right one. Thank you.”
Driving licences
- “Thank you, chair. On military mobility, Italy would like to thank the Cyprus presidency for having made progress on this file effectively. We welcome the EU package on military mobility to help us deal with current challenges. Italy is committed and involved in various different hot hotspots. We require the necessary financial resources, and we believe, we should strive for synergy with NATO as well. Thank you.”
Relations with NATO
- “Thank you, Maria. First of all, I would like to express my solidarity with Slovakia due to the serious drought it is facing. Today's problem is not an isolated case. It reflects a structural trend that impacts the entire European agricultural sector.
That is why I believe it is necessary to have European crisis management tools which are adapted to the evolution of said risks. I believe that in the future programming period, the new agricultural reserve can be used flexibly and effectively to deal with market crises as well as to respond to the different emergencies which impact the agricultural sector both as a result of natural disasters and climate risks and in the case of health emergencies in the livestock sector.
I would like to remind commissioner Hanssen of, considering the importance of the agricultural reserve and use it to, help farmers who have been, affected by the African swine fever and avian influenza. Thank you.”
Animal diseases prevention and management in the EU
- “Thank you, Mr. President. I will speak in Italian. Thank you. Q Chow, we are ready to support you in the upcoming negotiations in a constructive spirit to defend Council's position. We support the Commission's approach in its current compromise proposal because it maintains the importance of heading one programmes which boost competitiveness. It also expands the. The scope of Erasmus+ and support to BMV, Frontex and the pact for migration. Although we recognise the importance of margins and special instruments which are non thematic here, we believe that special attention should be paid to the Union Civil Protection Mechanism Some in the same spirit of solidarity. We appreciate the increase for humanitarian support, which can truly help alleviate alleviate suffering due to the most serious global crises. At a time where our leitmotif in Europe and budgetary negotiations is simplification. We do need to speak about the euro cascade mechanism. We firmly support the Council's declaration about the payment appropriations needed to ensure sustainability in support for agriculture and cohesion policies. We appreciate that taking into account the European delegations security needs across the world and the increasing security concerns in the current geopolitical context. And on the topic of security, we shouldn't forget cyber attacks and the need for increased European cyber security, which needs to be boosted in order to protect our systems and our data. Once again, we would reiterate our request for more clarity on the commitments on the southern neighbourhood and African policy areas and the external dimension of migration. We want to ensure that we have adequate financing here and require more clarity on this part of the proposal. Best of luck in the upcoming negotiations.”
Size of EU budget
- “Thank you. Chair. We welcome Commissioner Morelli, the need to strengthen the European regulatory framework for the authorisation of active substances and plant protection products, ensuring the availability of essential defence tools for sustainable agriculture is a particularly pressing issue in our country. The availability of effective defense tools is crucial to avoid production decline, increased costs, and increased dependence on imports and the loss of competitiveness in the agri food sector. We therefore support the need to introduce a socio economic sustainability assessment where effective alternatives are not available, especially in cases of renewal of the authorisation of active substances that can have significant impact on farm production capacity, farmer income and more generally, food safety. And finally, regarding the concerns expressed by Poland, we believe it is important to initiate an in-depth discussion on the matter with the aim of reducing the burden on farmers. Although we believe that the issue of risk prevention must also be carefully considered. Thank you.”
EU policy on pesticides
- “Thank you, chair. And the EVP and dear colleagues. Italy does support the compromise text. We believe that the result achieved is very positive vis a vis efficacy and application. And the current compromise does reflect our demands, because it includes a definition of workers who under the threat of imminent job displacement. And this allows to activate the request for help by the company and by the local authorities already during the initial negotiation phase with the employee representatives. And all of this against the backdrop of collective dismissals and the relevant regulations thereon. We believe this is important because it could have a positive impact when it comes to company restructuring and crises across strategic sectors, as those that were mentioned by EVP, means that Italy believes in the importance of having national measures and EU funds, and also the fact that we can now involve the different regional authorities in the whole equation. And that is why we are aware of the scarcity of the fund and that it will run out in the near future. Italy still remains in favour of the general approach.”
European Globalisation Adjustment Fund
- “Thank you. We favor any initiative intended to simplify donation to the needy. And we share the spirit of the initiative. However, we can't set aside the best national experience which need to be maintained and enhanced. Since 2016, in Italy, we have had a rule on the reduction of waste, on donation and on the distribution of food and pharmaceutical products. And instead of it being compulsory, it's created a virtuous circle amongst economic operators and enabled the distribution of food to the most vulnerable people. Via donation. It should be possible to maintain the distribution of quality products above all that should be remembered.”
Food waste
- “Thank you, President. We very warmly welcome with Great Expectations the Commission's proposal aimed at defining a legislative framework on [00:10:30] new genomic techniques in agriculture. These represent the most effective instrument that we have at our disposal in the agricultural sector to improve the sustainability of production, increase food security and safeguard the environment. So given that, we rest assured that we will support this work at a technical level where we will go into the procedural [00:11:00] and scientific ins and outs of this proposal, which is particularly complex but which has been long awaited here today. However, I would like to avail myself of this opportunity to raise certain general issues that I think are of great importance. The first point concerns the reasons for the differentiation between Category one and two plants and Category two plants. The latter are more similar to the old [00:11:30] GMOs Italy as is against this. I listened with great interest to the presentation just made by the Commissioner. However, I think that the scientific arguments underpinning this choice need to be thrashed out a bit further, and I do hope that in the months to come it will be possible for us to go into this in further depth. The second question concerns the general approach of the [00:12:00] proposal and its application, and I'm thinking in particular of the fact that the NGT plants are not distinguishable from conventional plants because once they are authorised, the member States cannot prevent them being cultivated on its own territory. So we really need to understand if the labelling method of the seeds proposed by the Commission is the only possible solution to distinguish between [00:12:30] NT crops and conventional crops. I repeat, these are initial general comments that I am making now because of course during the future debate, undoubtedly additional clarifications will be provided so as to better understand the spirit and the scope of the proposal as well as the methods of application. Thank you, sir.”
New Genomic Techniques
- “Thank you, Mr. President. Sustainable transition requires a pragmatic approach. This is something we've heard before. The Green Deal and the clean industrial Deal are very important initiatives. They're crucial. But it's their implementation which might lead to increased relocalization of CO2 emissions. Technological obsolescence, and a loss of production capacity. For example, steel, aluminium, chemicals and the glass sectors are currently under great pressure because they have to deal with increased international pressure as well as the progressive loss of competitiveness. They are vulnerable, and this is aggravated by the volatility of energy prices and a regulatory framework which remains incredibly complex. That's why for years and for months, Italy has been trying to promote a pragmatic approach within Europe to this transition. We are determined to contribute to the European Chemicals Plan, which will be coming up in autumn of 2025, to try and deal with the structural issues that bridle the competitiveness of this sector. Another important sector for Italy and for Europe is the automotive industry. We're happy with the automotive action plan, but it doesn't include some important aspects which we continue to support, such as technology. Neutrality being the fundamental principle. If we look at the future initiatives of the EU. We would like to see simplification of authorisation. Authorisation procedures for green investments in. Reinforcement of protection against the relocalization of CO2 emissions. Which means we would have to. Review the cbam in a timely manner. We need less short term actions to try and contain the energy prices. These initiatives are timid for the time being. Of course, this doesn't mean that we should ignore long term investments. We also need to look at the needs of other high energy intensity sectors such as glass, paper, ceramics and cement. And above all, what we need is consistency and coherence between the next MFF and these policies that we would like to adopt. Thank you.”
Energy (green transition)
- “Thank you very much, chairman. Social investment, industrial policy skills need to be a holistic vision of the Draghi report reminds us that investing in skills are really the foundation to build EU capacity, capacity to remain competitive and to get back on the path to sustainable and inclusive growth. We need to coordinate actions and resources on the EU level to make sure that EU citizens have the skills to go through the transitions. And, um, this is part of the technical revolution. I climate and demographic transitions. The implementation of the Eprs should be focused on the on citizen empowerment, especially the most vulnerable and the least represented in the labour market. Like women, citizens must be enabled to have access to high quality jobs through the social dialogue, and this is the main way to gain personal fulfilment and social inclusion, as well as the full enjoyment of social rights. And so we need to make sure that we have a proper services infrastructure. We need to have effective employment, and we also need to provide help to workers who have care requirements and, where necessary, to provide economic and social support to vulnerable families. We need to give resources and funds to social investment. I would like to express how confused we are at the aim of the social convergence framework. Of course, there is the work done by the Imco and the SPC on the technical level, but if these issues are not linked to Specific. Operative instruments. And to pinpoint the vulnerabilities that we've talked about, then what is the aim of the exercise? What we need are financial instruments that are specific to this area. For example, what we had in. Sure, we need to support um, member states to face a crises. This is ever more true because of the limitations in terms of space and also demographic and industrial challenges. We're at the beginning of an institutional cycle, so it's the right time to work together to relaunch our competitiveness, our social model and our vision that people must be at the center of development. Thank you.”
EU competences on social policies
- “Thank you. It's well known that the tobacco and nicotine markets have expanded what's on offer with new products, and we have seen an increase in use, especially among young people. So they are a key target audience for companies who want to attract new consumers. At the same time, on alcohol consumption, we need to act to protect the health of young people, especially under 18, especially in light of binge drinking and excessive alcohol consumption outside of meal times. Over the past ten years, we have seen a clear uptick in that. For that reason, the Ministry of Health is committed to promoting healthy lifestyles with a particular focus on young people and to acting at the level of those risk factors which are which they are mainly exposed to alcohol and tobacco. As such, schools and other areas where young people socialise are privileged locations for carrying out direct actions targeting this category of the population. We must adopt a multidisciplinary and intersectional approach, and it's also vital we have a new approach to deal with the increase in new tobacco and nicotine products, especially those aimed at young people. In Italy, the market is contributing significantly, is changing significantly, and emerging products are contributing to a new generation of consumers who consume these products. It would be desirable to have a clear classification of these products at European level. We should also strengthen our prevention efforts in areas where young people socialize and make sure we more closely monitor bans on sales of alcohol to minors, especially establishments which aren't licensed to sell alcohol. It would also be useful to share data on consumer profiles and consumption behavior. Only using epidemiological data will we be able to improve our policies to reduce consumption. We must therefore share best practices based on scientific evidence so that we can carry out prevention and identify early on the harmful effects of alcohol on the young population, and especially the more vulnerable categories such as under 18 young people, women and the elderly.”
EU measures on lifestyle-related behaviours (smoking, drinking, eating, etc.)
- “Thank you. Chairman. Well. That's me. Thank you very much for the effort undertaken. But unfortunately, we cannot accept the text as it is presented and amended now, in particular for the part on cattle farming, because the thresholds are not acceptable for us. We trust that in the subsequent phase of the trilogue this might be overcome. But at the moment we cannot accept. Thank you.”
EU requirements on animal welfare for farmers