If you’re asking yourself why the new Italian envoy is immediately consulting with his host nation’s defense chief on the aftermath of last year’s war against Nagorno-Karabakh and increasing military ties with the aggressor you’re not the only one.
Archiv: Italy
Italy Confirms 14 Life Sentences for Operation Condor Killers
On Friday, Italy’s Supreme Court confirmed life imprisonment for 14 former officials and military personnel from Chile and Uruguay who were charged with the murder of citizens during Operation Condor, a U.S. counterinsurgency strategy implemented in Latin America during the 1970s and 1980s.
Måneskin – ZITTI E BUONI (Official Video – Sanremo 2021)
Una produzione Maestro Production
Regia e montaggio: Simone Peluso
Produttore Esecutivo: Antonio Giampaolo
Aiuta Regia: Simone Mastronardi
D.O.P: Leonardo Mirabilia
Co-Regia Luca Boarelli
Colorist: Rosario Balistreri
Scenografo: Raffaele Lucci
Organizzatore Generale: Laura Serra, Marina Greco
Production Supervisor: Giammario D’Eramo
Assistente di Produzione: Lorenzo Lecci, Giulia De mango, Lucrezia Graziano
‘Is VDL being pressured by Germany?!’ Macron aide speechless at C4 Covid vaccine probe
Channel 4 News presenter Matt Frei asked: „Is this all very political and does Ursula von der Leyen, as a German politician and member of Angela Merkel’s ruling CDU, is she now under pressure?
„Especially after the results of the regional elections on Sunday that she has to come out and take the gloves off.
„Is that what this is? Is it political?“
Ms Trillet-Lenoir replied: „I wouldn’t say so. I would say it’s a complicated explanation.
BBC’s Katya Adler exposes why Italy ‚under pressure‘ to suspend AstraZeneca vaccine
BBC’s Katya Adler insisted that Italy felt under pressure to suspend the rollout of the AstraZeneca Covid vaccine. While speaking on Newscast, she said despite its own advisors saying not to suspend the use of the vaccine, the Italian Government decided to plough ahead with the temporary ban. She claimed this was due to mounting pressure from their citizens with concerns due to bigger European nations Germany and France suspending the vaccine.
Germany, France, Italy Suspend Use of AstraZeneca’s Covid-19 Vaccine
(15.03.2021)
Germany, Italy, France and Spain joined the ranks of European countries that have temporarily halted use of the Covid-19 shot made by AstraZeneca PLC over blood-clot concerns, dealing another blow to the continent’s sluggish vaccination rollout and threatening the credibility of the vaccine itself.
Netherlands joins growing list of EU nations to suspend use of AstraZeneca jab over blood clot fears as Bloc’s battle against virus falters with new lockdown in Italy and cases spiking in France with hospitals over-run
It comes as Dutch voters deliver their verdict on the country’s coronavirus response in the first of three days of voting in a snap election, weeks after a curfew prompted three nights of rioting across major cities.
The Netherlands is the fifth country to pause its roll-out, following Ireland, Denmark, Iceland and Norway. Italy and Austria stopped using one particular batch of the jab.
Belgian plant blamed for AstraZeneca vaccine shortage says it met all deliveries
(10.02.2021)
AstraZeneca subcontracted the plant — previously owned by Novasep — to produce the drug substance of its vaccine. Volanti would not say how many doses the plant was contracted to provide. He said the plant sends its drug substance to an Italian company to be put into vials and packaged for distribution.
AstraZeneca declined to comment on Thermo Fisher’s remarks, according to Reuters.
BOLOGNA, ITALY: Customers escort police out of the #IoApro restaurant under the cries of „Freedom! Freedom! Freedom!“
(16.01.2021)
A very angry Italian opposition MP (@VittorioSgarbi ) backs the #IoApro (#IOpen) movement & calls for an insurrection against government restrictions on businesses, he says „Open up, & don’t worry, in the end we will make them eat their fines“.
(14.01.2021)
The revolution starts tomorrow.
Thousands of restaurant owners in Italy are preparing to open the doors on Friday by initiating a civil disobedience movement against Covid-19 measures. The movement grows under #ioapro (I am opening) hashtag on social media!
Since the beginning of March 2020 more than 1513 EMASOH flagged vessels have crossed the Strait of Hormuz while surface and air assets were monitoring shipping lanes and FHQ EMASOH was on watch 24/7 for the benefit of maritime security @EMASOH_SCR @FFEAU_ALINDIEN
French Navy puts fresh focus on high-intensity combat training
(19.11.2020)
Last week sailors successfully fired a cruise missile against a land target from a FREMM frigate, just a few weeks after the Suffren submarine fired its first naval cruise missile, trouble-free.
In a wide-ranging conversation with Defense News, Baudouard stressed that the Navy is a combat force and as such not only trains for today’s battles but is also preparing for tomorrow’s wars.
European mission to secure Strait of Hormuz
(25.09.2020)
A new European military mission is aimed at ensuring safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping lane, experts told Al-Mashareq.
The European Maritime Awareness in the Strait of Hormuz (EMASOH) was established earlier this year by Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Portugal, Greece, France, Italy and Denmark.
European Maritime Awareness in the Strait of Hormuz (EMASOH): political statement by the governments of Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, and Portugal (20 January 2020)
(21.01.2020)
Sharing the assessment that the current situation in the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz remains unstable in a region critical to global stability, and supporting the de-escalation approach when it comes to dealing with regional security issues, the Governments of BELGIUM, DENMARK, FRANCE, GERMANY, GREECE, ITALY, THE NETHERLANDS, AND PORTUGAL politically support the creation of a European-led maritime surveillance mission in the Strait of Hormuz (EMASOH). We welcome any contribution in kind as already declared by DENMARK, FRANCE, GREECE, and THE NETHERLANDS to this effort and look forward to further commitments in the coming days.
Italy’s taxi drivers to strike on Friday
The drivers will hold demonstrations outside the economy and transport ministries in Rome and in several other cities. They will display a banner at Rome’s Termini train station saying: „Taxi Strike Today. We apologise to users but we don’t even have money for fuel any more“.
Italy’s National Unity and Armed Forces Day marked in Rome
The Italian aerobatic squad Frecce Tricolori performs during a ceremony marking Italy’s National Unity and Armed Forces Day in Rome, Italy, Nov. 4, 2020.
Proteste a Firenze per lockdown, una manifestante tuona: „Non siamo fascisti, siamo di sinistra e abbiamo votato per quei pezzi di merda del Pd.“
L’Italia non si ferma: VIII giorno di proteste. Roma Campo dei Fiori, cittadini in marcia pacifica verso Montecitorio protestano contro lockdown e governo Conte: „Libertà!“ Lamorgese ordina di bloccare il corteo pacifico e la Polizia manganella i cittadini.
Ancora scontri a Roma: centri sociali protestano contro lockdown e governo Conte. Scontri con la Polizia. #Lockdown #RadioSavana
Dopo sei giorni di eroica disobbedienza civile il ristorante Bistrot Bonaccorsi a Bologna viene chiuso con la forza: Lamorgese invia circa 20 agenti (Polizia e Carabinieri) per far chiudere il locale. L’ira del titolare: „Non sono un camorrista, sono un lavoratore!“
COVID protests not centrally organised – interior min
This week’s sometimes violent protests against new COVID restrictions were not centrally organized and coordinated but involved separate groups of far-right and far-left extremists, soccer ultras and criminal elements, according to a national committee for public order and security meeting chaired by Interior Minister Luciana Lamorgese and involving top police, intelligence and security officials on Wednesday.
Notte di guerriglia urbana in centro a Firenze: lancio di molotov e lacrimogeni
Incidenti nella notte nel centro storico di Firenze con lancio di bombe carta, fumogeni, atti vandalici e ripetute cariche della polizia per una manifestazione non autorizzata contro gli ultimi provvedimenti anti covid del Governo.
Firenze 2) #scontri #lockdownitalia #lockdown
Protests in several Italian cities tonight against the government’s latest coronavirus restrictions. This is the scene in Turin tonight.
@SkyTG24
Extending COVID emergency not abuse of power – Conte
Conte said the government would consult with parliament over extending the emergency until January 31.
Italy, USA sign moon-exploration agreement
Italy and the United States on Friday signed a declaration of intent for exploration of the moon linked to the Artemis programme.
The deal was signed in Rome by Cabinet Secretary Riccardo Fraccaro in video link with NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine.
Mediterranean leaders ready for EU sanctions on ‘confrontational’ Turkey
After talks with the leaders of Italy, Malta, Portugal, Spain, Greece and Cyprus in the resort of Porticcio outside the local capital Ajaccio, Macron adopted a slightly milder tone, saying the leaders wanted to reengage in a dialogue with Turkey „in good faith“.
Foreign minister to tour Beirut aid efforts on first overseas trip since COVID
Champagne is also scheduled to visit Switzerland, Italy and Britain during his overseas trip for meetings with UN officials and several of his European counterparts.
Erdoğan, Fayez Sarraj hold meeting in Istanbul
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan Saturday received Libya’s Prime Minister Fayez Sarraj at Istanbul’s Vahdettin Palace.
Erdoğan and Sarraj came together in a closed-door meeting
Italy arrests Siemens, Alstom executives over Milan subway deals
Turkey says will work with Italy for Libya peace, excoriates EU
Mevlut Cavusoglu made the comments during a joint news conference with his Italian counterpart Luigi Di Maio. Italy and Turkey support the U.N.-backed government that is based in Tripoli against the rival forces under the command of Khalifa Hifter, who is supported by France, Russia, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates and other key Arab countries.
UPDATE: Study Finds Just 1.8% of US Population is in Nursing Homes But Tallied Over 42% of All US COVID-19 Deaths — or Over 40,000 Deaths!
(26.05.2020)
At least 4,900 seniors have died in New York State nursing homes from the coronavirus so far this year.
Around 20 percent of all New York state deaths were in nursing homes.
Italy Says 96% of Virus Fatalities Suffered From Other Illnesses
Nearly half of new cases in May were registered at nursing homes.
The most recent ISS weekly study, based on a sample of about 10% of fatalities until May 21, also showed that just 124 victims, or 4.1% of the total, had no previous pathology. Almost 60% of victims suffered from at least three prior illnesses and about a fifth had two conditions.
Immunity Certificates: If We Must Have Them, We Must Do It Right
(20.04.2020)
Credential Use:
1. When the individual attempts to gain access to, for instance, a place of work, the business will verify1.the validity of the credential, then make a determination to grant or deny access. This verification does not require contacting the issuer of the credential.
2. As part of the process of determining whether to grant or deny access, the verifier can compare the cryptographically verified photo against the individual through manual means or through automated facial recognition.
Phase 2: 3,691 cited for breaking rules on first day
Some 96 shopowners were fined and 23 shops closed down, it said. Some 98 people were cited for false declarations and 11 for breaking quarantine.
1.5 million Israelis using voluntary coronavirus monitoring app
(01.04.2020)
Around 1.5 million Israelis have downloaded a mobile app in the past week that alerts users who have crossed paths with a coronavirus patient, according to the Health Ministry, helping to improve tracking of the pandemic.T he app “HaMagen” – Hebrew for The Shield – is sparking interest from abroad with approaches from Germany, Italy, Britain, Australia and Chile so far, ministry deputy director general Morris Dorfman said Wednesday.
Italy Says App Tracing Contacts of People Infected With COVID-19 Will Be Anonymous
Premier Giuseppe Conte’s Cabinet, at a meeting that ended early Thursday, approved a law, in the form of the decree, that guarantees that those who decide not to use the app won’t suffer limits on their movement or other rights.
Italy’s Veneto Defies Government, Lifts Coronavirus Curbs Early
The northern region of Veneto, one of Italy’s early coronavirus hotspots, broke ranks with the national government on Monday and announced it would lift some lockdown restrictions a week ahead of schedule.
Live updates: U.S. sees signs of ‘quarantine fatigue’; Italy to ease West’s longest coronavirus lockdown
As world leaders grapple with perilous questions on lifting coronavirus restrictions, Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte looks to ease the West’s longest lockdown and gradually reopen Italy’s economy starting next week.
In the United States, Americans are showing signs of “quarantine fatigue.” The White House is reviewing expanded guidance on reopening society as more states prepare to relax restrictions, but social distancing could continue through the summer.
WHO and UN launch drive to accelerate vaccine development
As the deaths caused by the coronavirus passed 190,000 at the global level and the number of cases crossed the 2.7 million threshold (Johns Hopkins University data updated Friday), a „historic collaboration“ was launched to accelerate the arrival of a vaccine.
Secretary-General’s remarks at the launch of the Statement of Commitment and Call for Support for the Global Collaboration to Accelerate the Development, Production and Equitable Access to New COVID-19 Tools [as delivered]
This launch brings together world leaders, the private sector, scientific and humanitarian actors and other partners to promote health, keep the world safe and advance the public good.
Human health is the quintessential global public good.
And today, we face a global public enemy like no other.
$8-billion effort aims to speed development of coronavirus vaccines and treatments
Friday’s launch event was co-hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and philanthropists Bill and Melinda Gates.
Leaders from South Africa, Rwanda, Germany, Great Britain, Spain, Italy, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Finland and Costa Rica joined the call to pledge their commitment to work with and support the ACT Accelerator.
Representatives from the United States and China were noticeably absent.
Global collaboration to accelerate new COVID-19 health technologies
The launch of the new collaboration is being co-hosted by WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
The virtual event will include senior United Nations, government and public health and industry leaders from around the world.
World leaders call for global collaboration in COVID-19 fight
World leaders have joined the World Health Organisation in calling for global collaboration to accelerate the development and equitable access to new COVID-19 tools, including vaccines.
The Florence Declaration: The Creation of a “NATO-Exit” International Front
The 25th of April is an important date in Italy’s history. It commemorates the 75th anniversary of Liberation, which is also the Anniversary of the Resistance.
Last year we met in Florence on the 7th of April, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of the founding of NATO.
The theme of our conference last year was NATO EXIT.
The event was organized by Italy’s Comitato No Guerra, No NATO, in collaboration with the Centre for Research on Globalization (CRG). The Florence Declaration was drafted by Italy’s Comitato and the CRG.
On April 25, 2020, Commemorating the Liberation of Italy. We express our solidarity with the people of Italy. At the same time we express our concern regarding the US military bases established in Italy immediately established after World WarII.
We must reflect on our history. Was it a Liberation or an Occupation?
The European Union is militarized. The Pentagon is actively involved under banner of NATO in both Western and Eastern Europe.
Italy: COVID-19 Plunged One Million People Into Poverty
Coldiretti explained, adding that „the number of Italians who need food aid to survive reached 3.7 million people.“
Italy Is Discovering that European Solidarity Doesn’t Exist
(10.04.2020)
Thursday’s Eurogroup agreement promised Italy loans to deal with the health care costs of coronavirus — but refused to help it stave off economic catastrophe. EU leaders have once again put neoliberal dogmas above the welfare of ordinary citizens — further undermining Italians’ once-dogged pro-Europeanism.
Italian MEP sheds light on Germany’s ‚diabolical EU plan‘ to push its interests forward
(12.04.2020)
„It has been like this for years.“
The Italian politician added: „What Germany is doing is disgusting and I believe that the EU will look very different when this virus is over.
„The UK could have not made a better decision in leaving this bloc.“
Coronavirus: Italy activates satellite to monitor nation amid lockdown
The announcement was made by European Commissioner for Crisis Management, Janez Lenarcic.
The civil protection will use Copernicus to make sure people are not gathering outside.
Intensive care patients down for 6th day
The number of coronavirus patients in intensive care units in Italy dropped for the sixth straight day on Thursday, the civil protection department. There are 3,605 such patients in Italy, 88 fewer than Wednesday, it said.
EU project in ‘mortal danger’ if Italy and Spain are abandoned
(29.03.2020)
Conte said anybody who thinks they can force Italy to accept disciplinary terms as a condition for loans – a sort of „Troika“ regime – have gravely misjudged the mood of his nation. Italy will not take the money. “We will do it alone,” he said.
The message is that if there is no EU solidarity when it matters, then it no longer makes sense for Italy to accept EU surveillance and constraints, or for Italy to forgo use of its own sovereign policy instruments in self-defence.
„When Italy invoked the EU’s formal disaster procedure with desperate calls for protective gear and ventilators, no country responded. Germany and France instead imposed export bans. The EU’s single market did not exist when push came to shove.“
(30.03.2020)
Ahead of the #Eurogroup, Italian Minister of EU Affairs @amendolaenzo repeats Italy’s NO to the ESM.
Italy irked after EU rejects coronabonds: ‚They want us to get in debt so they can punish us‘ – Patuanelli
(27.03.2020)
Italy was irked after an EU summit rejected the idea of ‚coronabonds‘ to fund measures to offset the economic impact of the coronavirus
„A response to the corona crisis in Europe based on solidarity“
Article by Heiko Maas, Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Olaf Scholz, Federal Minister of Finance, on the corona crisis in Europe. Published April 6th, 2020, in different language versions in Les Echos (France), La Stampa (Italy), El País (Spain), Público (Portugal) and Ta Nea (Greece).
NY Daily Deaths Drop, Italy Lowest Since March 19: Virus Update
New York State’s daily deaths fell for the first time, but Governor Andrew Cuomo said it’s too soon to draw conclusions. Italy reported its fewest fatalities in a single day since March 19.
The U.K. faces a tighter lockdown if needed to halt the spread after cases rose to more than 47,000 and fatalities approached 5,000. Spain’s deaths from the virus fell for a third straight day.
Lockdown end remains April 13 clarifies Borrelli
The current scheduled end for Italy’s coronavirus lockdown remains April 13, emergency commissioner Angelo Borrelli clarified Friday, denying he had said Italy would still be in lockdown on May Day.
Coronavirus: Salvini defends Orban taking new powers
Nationalist opposition League leader Matteo Salvini said, amid criticism of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban getting full powers Monday, that it had been a democratic choice by the Hungarian parliament.
‚Every Single Individual Must Stay Home‘: Italy’s Coronavirus Surge Strains Hospitals
(19.03.2020)
Some question why Italy was caught off guard when the virus outbreak was revealed on Feb. 21.
Remuzzi says he is now hearing information about it from general practitioners. „They remember having seen very strange pneumonia, very severe, particularly in old people in December and even November,“ he says. „This means that the virus was circulating, at least in [the northern region of] Lombardy and before we were aware of this outbreak occurring in China.“
Coronavirus: Govt ups sanctions for breaking lockdown
The measures are expected to include 4,000 euro fines and the confiscation of motor vehicles, sources said.
OK to drones to monitor movements
Several local police offices had asked ENAC to waive restrictions on the drones‘ use.
NATO receives first AGS mobile exploitation station
„Radar images will be acquired by the RQ-4D Phoenix remotely piloted aircraft and received via a direct or satellite broadband connection. In addition, data from all interoperable command, control, ISR systems operated by NATO and its member states can be received and evaluated
“The way in which we code deaths in [Italy] is very generous in the sense that all the people who die in hospitals with the coronavirus are deemed to be dying of the coronavirus.”
(20.03.2020)
Why have so many coronavirus patients died in Italy?
(20.03.2020)
“The way in which we code deaths in our country is very generous in the sense that all the people who die in hospitals with the coronavirus are deemed to be dying of the coronavirus.
“On re-evaluation by the National Institute of Health, only 12 per cent of death certificates have shown a direct causality from coronavirus, while 88 per cent of patients who have died have at least one pre-morbidity – many had two or three,” he says.
Coronavirus death toll in Italy’s Lombardy jumps some 380 in a day -source
The death toll from an outbreak of coronavirus in the northern Italian region of Lombardy, which has borne the brunt of a nationwide contagion, has risen by around 380 in a day to some 2,550, a source said on Friday.
If confirmed, it would be the highest daily increase since the outbreak emerged a month ago.
99% of Those Who Died From Virus Had Other Illness, Italy Says
More than 99% of Italy’s coronavirus fatalities were people who suffered from previous medical conditions, according to a study by the country’s national health authority.
After deaths from the virus reached more than 2,500, with a 150% increase in the past week, health authorities have been combing through data to provide clues to help combat the spread of the disease.
Investigating the impact of influenza on excess mortality in all ages in Italy during recent seasons (2013/14–2016/17 seasons)
(November 2019)
In the winter seasons from 2013/14 to 2016/17, an estimated average of 5,290,000 ILI cases occurred in Italy, corresponding to an incidence of 9%.
More than 68,000 deaths attributable to flu epidemics were estimated in the study period.
Italy showed a higher influenza attributable excess mortality compared to other European countries. especially in the elderly.
Coronavirus live updates: Californians ordered to stay home; Italy surpasses China’s death toll; US death toll tops 200
The global death toll passed 10,000; there were nearly 245,000 confirmed cases. In the U.S., deaths jumped to 205 across 25 states – including the first reported fatalities in Maryland, Mississippi and Oklahoma.
Coronavirus: Switzerland Expands Entry Restrictions and Border Control
As of March 19, there are more than 28,000 active cases of COVID-19 in Italy, out of 35,000 overall infections.
Italy and UK rely on help from Cuba, China, Venezuela to fight coronavirus – as US steps up brutal sanctions
Italy requested doctors from China, Cuba, and Venezuela to contain the coronavirus, while Cuba rescued a ship of British citizens. Meanwhile, US sanctions worsen the toll of the Covid-19 crisis in Iran and Venezuela.
Just read that Chinese medical team sent to Italy to fight Covid-19 comprises mostly experienced doctors from Sichuan. Sichuan folks still remember how Italy rescue team during the devastating 2008 Wenchuan earthquake saved many lives. The world needs more help with each other
(13.03.2020)
Coronavirus: Deaths in Italy up to 2,503, 26,602 infected
Emergency Commissioner and Civil Protection Chief Angelo Borrelli said Tuesday that 2,503 people have now died with the coronavirus in Italy, 345 more than Monday. That was down slightly on the daily rise of 349 on Monday, which, in turn, was slight lower than Sunday’s figure for fatalities. The number of new cases of COVID-19 grew again, however, after a small deceleration on Monday.
Xi says China to send more medical experts to Italy
China will send more medical experts to Italy and do its best to provide medical supplies and other assistance, Chinese President Xi Jinping said in a phone conversation with Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte on Monday evening.
Coronavirus: Deaths in Italy up by 349 to 2,158
There have now been over 2,000 coronavirus victims in Italy, 2,158, a rise of 349 on Sunday, Emergency Commissioner and Civil Protection Chief Angelo Borrelli said Monday.
The previous day’s rise was 368.
Coronavirus: deaths in Italy up to 1,441
The number of people to have died in Italy after contracting the coronavirus is up to 1,441 people, a rise of 175 in a single day, Emergency Commissioner and Civil Protection Chief Angelo Borrelli said Saturday. Borrelli said there were 2,795 new cases in 24 hours, while 2,000 people have recovered from COVID-19 here.
WHO chief: Europe now center of virus pandemic
The head of the World Health Organization says Europe, not China, is now the epicenter of the world’s coronavirus pandemic.
Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told reporters in Geneva that “more cases are now being reported every day than were reported in China at the height of its epidemic.”
Coronavirus: Italian strain isolated at Sacco hospital
(27.02.2020)
The team includes researchers Alessia Loi, Annalisa Bergna and Arianna Gabrieli, all three on short term contracts, together with their Polish colleague Maciej Tarkowski and Professor Gianguglielmo Zehender.
Galli said they had worked non stop since Sunday.
Italy’s virus is a different strain from Wuhan’s
(28.02.2020)
„A group of researchers from Milan’s University Hospital was able to identify the strain of the Italian virus. The researchers state that when compared to what was known about the Chinese virus, a mutation has occured and this discovery will allow to reach(?) the genetic code of the virus, its specific characteristics in order to find out the time and spread speed of the virus. This should be an important first step to develop specific treatment for the infected. The scientific community has already communicated this discovery to Brussels [to the European Union headquarters] and even President Materelli has already congratulated the researchers (…)“
MILAN/SEOUL (Reuters) – In Italy, millions are locked down and more than 1,000 people have died from the coronavirus. In South Korea, hit by the disease at about the same time, only a few thousand are quarantined and 67 people have died.
Turkish navy’s star frigate joins NATO drill
The Dynamic Manta 2020 drill – an annual advanced anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare exercise – kicked off on Feb. 24 off Italy’s Sicily Island and will continue through March 6.
Italian Navy Frigate Conducts Military Exercises With Cyprus off Larnaca
According to a press release issued by the Italian Embassy in Nicosia, the frigate is conducting patrolling operations in the Eastern Mediterranean, for presence and surveillance activities, in compliance with international law and to safeguard national interests.
Italy alarmed after Egyptian studying in Bologna arrested in Cairo
Italy called on Egypt to release the researcher based at Bologna University, saying it had reason to believe the security forces had tortured him.
Italy’s center-left seen beating League in key regional vote: exit poll
An exit poll for state television RAI said the PD incumbent was seen taking between 47.0%-51.0% of the vote, while the rightist candidate looked on course to take 44.0%-48.0%.
Italy dismisses Turkish claims on joint exploitation of Libyan resources
Italy on Tuesday dismissed Turkish claims that the country is allegedly negotiating with Ankara the terms for the exploitation of Libya’s oil resources, describing them as “unfounded.”
Conte ’satisfied‘ after Berlin Conference on Libya
Italian Premier Giuseppe Conte, speaking in Berlin on Sunday together with Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio following the four-hour Berlin Conference on Libya, said he was „satisfied because we have made progress“.
EU HR Borrell meets Minister of Foreign Affairs of Germany, France, Italy and United Kingdom: roundtable
Josep BORRELL, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, meets with Heiko MAAS, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Germany; Jean-Yves LE DRIAN, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France; Luigi DI MAIO, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Italy; Dominic RAAB, Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs and First Secretary of State of the United Kingdom, on 7 January 2020, in Brussels.
Foreign ministers of Britain, France, Germany and Italy are meeting to discuss Iran and Libya. Journalist Lucy Hough reports from Brussels
The Persian Gulf Is About to Become Dangerously Crowded
(12.12.2019)
France and Qatar signed an agreement allowing France to deploy and station military forces within Qatar.
The Netherlands said on November 25 that it would join Denmark and France in the European naval mission, reported the NLTimes. The Netherlands said it would deploy a navy ship to the Persian Gulf for six months but said it would play an “observing” role. Belgium, Italy, Norway, Spain and Sweden are also expected to join the European coalition, the Tehran Times reported.
Turkey renews military pledge to Libya as threat of Mediterranean war grows
Ankara ready to defend government in Tripoli in latest policy to inflame tensions with US, EU, Greece and Middle East countries
WAR IN SYRIA: Spain helping US identify European jihadists in Syria
(04.03.2019)
Spanish agents in Syria are cooperating with Operation Gallant Phoenix, a U.S.-led effort to identify fighters from Western nations who have joined Islamic State (ISIS) and Al Qaeda-affiliated groups in the region, counter-terrorism sources told EL PAÍS.
NZ confirms ongoing part in Operation Gallant Phoenix
(10.06.2019)
“New Zealand began participating in Operation Gallant Phoenix in late 2014 in support of our efforts to uncover information relating to the location of a New Zealander taken hostage by ISIS,” Jacinda Ardern said.
#Breaking #Israel is taking part in a multi-national #intelligence force: Operation Gallant Phoenix, based in the #Jordan capital, alongside Arab powers #SaudiArabia #Egypt and #UAE in order to quash #ISIS #Daesh working alongside #US #UK #France #Italy
(10.06.2019)
Nukes in Turkey will be on minds in London NATO summit: The Economist
Italy and Turkey host between 60 and 70 bombs each, but “the bombs that most worry American officials are stored in vaults at İncirlik air base” in the southern Turkish province of Adana, The Economist said.
Environmental concerns ground plan to double size of Italy’s largest airport
Citing the ecological fragility of the area, Italy’s Ministry for Environment, land and Sea rejected a plan that would have dramatically increased the size of Rome’s main airport.
French frigate in Cyprus’ EEZ, naval exercise underway (Update 2)
“I am not suggesting that we should go to war […]. I am just saying that Europe must show somehow that it cannot tolerate this behavior, that there are certain red lines. The frigates, sent by France and Italy to block 7, is a first step. We must wait and see what kind of deterrence this move will have,” he said.
Eni CEO Claudio Descalzi said on Thursday his company would not drill off Cyprus if it meant having to deal with warships.
Italy’s 5-Star Backs Local Pact with Center-Left PD
By joining forces in Umbria, traditionally a PD stronghold, 5-Star and the PD hope to halt a long streak of victories by the center-right, which has triumphed in seven regional ballots since the national election in March 2018.
Success at the Oct. 27 Umbria vote would probably pave the way for similar alliances in the next few months in the regions of Emilia-Romagna in the industrial north, and Calabria in the poorer south.
Saudi troops return home as Eager Lion military exercise concludes in Jordan
Personnel from the Saudi army, navy, air force and air defense partook in activities, alongside members of the security forces of the US, UK, Italy, France, Germany, Spain, Belgium, Japan, South Korea, Jordan and Egypt.
Crunch time for govt talks: Mattarella to end 2nd round of consultations with M5S 19:00 Wed
On Tuesday Mattarella will phone his predecessor Giorgio Napolitano, then will receive Senate Speaker Elisabetta Casellati at 16:00, and House Speaker Roberto Fico at 17:00.
Meetings with the parties will follow, first with the smaller ones on Tuesday and following with the larger ones on Wednesday like Brothers of Italy (FdI), Forza Italia (FI), the League and the Democratic Party (PD), before lastly the M5S.
EU leaders try to ‚intimidate‘ Boris Johnson with their body language at the G7… but ’naughty schoolboy‘ PM is having none of it
– World leaders are signalling power, authority and control at the crucial G7 summit, body language expert said
– Angela Merkel, Emmanuel Macron and Donald Tusk sought presented an air of ‚intimidation‘, Judi James said
– The body language expert told MailOnline Britain’s representative Boris Johnson had an ‚air of happy oblivion‘
– She said: ‚With his hands clasped behind his back and a big, irreverent grin on his face he looks like the eternal naughty schoolboy who is having fun rather than wilting under the gaze of the others‘
UK commanders join Israel’s largest-ever naval exercise
(16.08.2019)
The exercise included ten navies, mainly from Nato. In addition to Israeli missile-boats, there were ships from the United States, Greece and France. Britain’s Royal Navy — along with representatives of Canada, Germany, Italy, Cyprus and Chile — was involved at a headquarters level, with observers and experts taking part in the planning of missions.
Conte to quit, Salvini unrepentant
He said he would hand in his resignation to Mattarella, who would „guide the country in a delicate passage“.
Salvini ‚unreliable‘ says M5S
The next formal step in the government crisis is Premier Giuseppe Conte’s address to the Senate Tuesday, after which he may go to President Sergio Mattarella and resign rather than facing a League no confidence motion, which may not now be filed. Meanwhile two-time former centre-left premier Romano Prodi, a PD grandee, called for a „long-lasting coalition government“ possibly also including Silvio Berlusconi’s centre-right Forza Italia (FI) party.
No M5S deal with Renzi and Boschi: Enough of fake news from League say Fraccaro, Bonafede
The M5S’s minister for relations with parliament, Riccardo Fraccaro, described the notion as „the fake news of the summer which the League is spreading after bringing the government down.
„I want to say this clearly, we will not do deals with Renzi and Boschi“. The M5S’s justice minister, Alfonso Bonafede, was just as emphatic.
„The M5S will never sit down with Renzi and/or Boschi“, he said.
USS Porter departs the Black Sea
The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) began its southbound transit from the Black Sea to the Mediterranean Sea, Aug. 18, 2019, after a scheduled port visit to Golcuk, Turkey, and conducting maritime security operations in the region.
Italy Faces Its Moment of Truth on the Euro
Most important, the League leader will have to decide where he really stands on fundamental questions that he has dodged so far – from Italy’s economic policy to its place in the euro zone and the European Union. Before now he could blame his weak coalition partner, the Five Star leader Luigi Di Maio, or his technocratic finance minister Giovanni Tria for any difficulties. The easy ride is over.
Scandals Aren’t Enough to Stop Salvini
It’s an index of the Left’s impotence that its main hope of stopping Matteo Salvini today lies in some sort of institutional “fix” to prevent early elections.
Not decided if we’ll run alone-Salvini
Interior Minster Matteo Salvini said Friday that he has not decided whether his League party will run alone or allied with other groups in eventual early elections. „Nothing has been decided about whether we’ll run alone,“ he said.
Italy Senate to decide on Monday when to hold no-confidence vote in government
The heads of political groups in Italy’s Senate will meet on Monday to set a date to hold a no-confidence vote in the government, the upper house press office said in a statement on Friday.
Over one million Italians lost jobs during crisis
The number of unemployed in Italy jumped by more than one million people between the start of the global economic crisis in 2008 and 2012, the national statistical agency Istat said Thursday.
Italian economy minister hails ‚historic‘ banking deal
A proposed new agreement on dealing with failing banks, hammered out in a lengthy meeting of finance ministers, was headed for a summit of European leaders on Thursday. Described as an „historic achievement“ by Italian Economy Minister Fabrizio Saccomanni, the single-resolution mechanism (SRM) agency is designed to prevent failures like the collapse of Lehman Brothers in 2008. Ban
Italy government: Salvini calls for snap election
In last year’s election, Five Star won twice as many votes as The League, but polls suggest the proportions have been reversed.
Turkey hosts international „Anatolian Eagle“ air drills
The training program between June 17 and June 28 is carried out with the participation of Turkey, Italy, Jordan, Pakistan, Qatar and the United States, while Azerbaijan attends as an observer.
Rightwinger probed over Bologna bombing: terrorist attack killed 85 people in 1980
A face on a frame from an amateur Super 8 film shot by a German tourist on the morning of the attack shows a „marked resemblance“ to Bellini, ANSA sources said in March Monday.
On the basis of this evidence Bologna prosecutors requested …
Ally of Major Jewish Group Joins Far-right European Bloc
The Jewish lobby group for the EU has yet to distance itself from the Danish party which recently aligned itself with far-right parties including those of Marine Le Pen, Matteo Salvini and the AfD.
A key institute run by the American Jewish Committee, one of the largest Jewish advocacy organizations in the world, continues to maintain ties with the leader of a Danish party that recently joined a new European-wide far-right alliance.
Airstrikes hit Tripoli as Haftar steps up assault on Libyan capital
Residents had reported drone strikes in recent days, but there has been no confirmation and explosions heard in the city centre this time were louder than in previous days.
Residents counted several missile strikes, one of which apparently hit a military camp of forces loyal to the UN-recognised government in the Sabaa district in the south of the capital – scene of the heaviest fighting between the rival forces.
Le Pen drops ‘Frexit’ in favour of an ‘EU of the far-right’
Marine Le Pen has asserted that neither she nor her party want France’s withdrawal from the eurozone.
Speaking at a gathering of her supporters on Saturday ahead of the European elections, the National Rally (RN) leader said that her platform would now “look to change the EU from within”.
Saudi Arabia Promised Support to Libyan Warlord in Push to Seize Tripoli
The offer came during a visit to Saudi Arabia that was just one of several meetings Mr. Haftar had with foreign dignitaries in the weeks and days before he began the military campaign on April 4.
Britain is heading for a long extension after no member state argued to veto a Brexit delay, sources say.
A small number of EU member states argued for an extension to June 30, but most argued for much longer: to December 2019, or even March 2020
World leaders congratulate Israel’s Netanyahu on likely re-election
Far-right Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini congratulated the incumbent premier, bidding „good job to my friend Bibi Netanyahu and a hug to the people of Israel.“
European far-right parties unite into new alliance ahead of EU elections
The group includes Mr Salvini’s League, as well as France’s far-right National Rally (formerly National Front), Austria’s Freedom Party and the Netherland’s Party for Freedom. Those parties have long sat together in the European Parliament.
But Mr Salvini was also joined on Monday by the far-right Alternative for Germany’s co-leader Joerg Meuthen, Olli Kotro of the Eurosceptic populist Finns party, and Anders Vistisen of the right-wing, populist Danish People’s Party.
How the West’s silence emboldened Libya’s Haftar
The 75-year-old Haftar, who has switched sides and loyalties in the course of a military career spanning half-a-century, has portrayed himself as the only man who can bring stability to Libya and crush the Islamists in the North African nation.
It’s a pitch that has won Haftar audiences with leaders in Paris, Rome, Moscow, Cairo, Riyadh and Abu Dhabi. But analysts warn that the self-aggrandising military man is unlikely or unable to deliver on both fronts.
Europeans furious at EU’s Brexit handling: Shock poll shows citizens turn back on Brussels
An average of just 38 percent of those asked by Pew Research Center approve of how the EU has dealt with Britain’s departure from the bloc. The Netherlands and Germany had the highest approval ratings but they were still only at 52 percent and 51 percent respectively. Italy and Hungary had the joint lowest at 31 percent, with Greece close behind at 32 percent in the poll published yesterday.
Italy PM Conte seeks to reassure EU, U.S. over China deals
Conte told parliament that a Memorandum of Understanding to be signed with President Xi Jinping hooking Italy up to China’s Belt and Road infrastructure initiative “do not remotely put into doubt our euro-Atlantic alliance”.
Italy to BLOCK Brexit delay: Salvini plans eurosceptic favour to Farage, warns Merkel ally
(18.3.2019) The German says the “strongman of the Italian government” is preparing to veto an Article 50 extension as a consensus fails to emerge for the delay on the Continent.
There are “very different views” amongst EU member states, Mr Brok concluded.
Mr Salvini is Italy’s deputy prime minister and will be represented at this week’s European Council summit by prime minister Giuseppe Conte.
‘I’m Not a Fascist’: E.U. Leader Apologizes for Comments on Mussolini’s Legacy
(14.3.2019)
His apology followed a radio interview on Wednesday in which he appeared to offer a positive slant on Mussolini’s dictatorship.
“I’m not a fascist, I was never a fascist, and I don’t share his political convictions,” Mr. Tajani told Radio 24, an Italian broadcaster. “But we have to be honest: Mussolini built roads, bridges, buildings, sports facilities; he has developed many parts of our Italy.”
Italy Should Back Brexit Delay if Requested: Foreign Minister
ROME — Italy should support a delay to Britain’s exit from the European Union if London makes such a request, Italian Foreign Minister Enzo Moavero said on Thursday.
La polemica, Antonio Tajani: „Mussolini? Ha fatto anche cose positive“
„Mussolini? Fino a quando non ha dichiarato guerra al mondo intero seguendo Hitler, ha fatto delle cose positive“. Lo ha detto Antonio Tajani nel corso di un’intervista ai giornalisti di La Zanzara, su Radio 24, che ne hanno mandato in onda alcuni estratti.
European Parliament President Says Mussolini Did Positive Things
Tajani is from the European Parliament’s centre-right federalist ‘European People’s Party’ grouping of Merkel, Varadkar, and Juncker. If a Eurosceptic had said what Tajani said there would be uproar…
Third of French and Italians think the UK has already left the EU: Euronews survey
Opinion in other European countries is also split over the bloc.
In France, just two out of five people polled feel positive towards the EU, compared to 54% of Italians and 56% of Germans.
Statement of the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Poland, Italy and Finland to point 39 of the CRP I agenda of 20 February 2019 regarding the DIRECTIVE OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL on copyright in the Digital Single Market.
Most notably we regret that the Directive does not strike the right balance between the protection of right holders and the interests of EU citizens and companies. It therefore risks to hinder innovation rather than promote it and to have a negative impact the competitiveness of the European Digital Single Market.
Furthermore, we feel that the Directive lacks legal clarity, will lead to legal uncertainty for many
stakeholders concerned and may encroach upon EU citizens’ rights.
We therefore cannot express our consent with the proposed text of the Directive.
France recalls Rome ambassador after worst verbal onslaught ’since the war‘
Di Maio this week met leaders of the gilets jaunes as he declared the “wind of change has crossed the Alps” and a “new Europe is being born of the yellow vests.” France said the comments were an unacceptable “provocation”.
Di Maio sees Yellow Jackets
Chalencon, spokesman of the Yellow Jackets list led by Ingrid Levavasseur, told ANSA Tuesday he and Di Maio and Di Battista „practically agree on everything“ after their meeting at the Hotel de France at Montargis, in the Parisian hinterland.
„We’re not talking of alliances yet but certainly of dialogue,“ he said.
He said there would be another meeting next week in Rome between Di Maio and Levavasseur, with him present.
Uruguay, Mexico Present Outline for Montevideo Conference
The conference will foster a platform for respectful negotiations between Venezuela and its opposition.
The agenda for the “Montevideo Mechanism” being held in Uruguay on Thursday will be a four part process, foreign ministers said Wednesday.
Conflict-ridden Eastern Mediterranean: Syrian war, disputed waters hinder solutions for hydrocarbon resources
In the last few years hopes for the commercialization of hydrocarbon resources in the Eastern Mediterranean have dimmed as diplomatic and military tensions rise in the region along side the unending Syrian war
Italy warns against ‚another Libya‘ if Venezuela is attacked
ITALY broke ranks with the EU on Thursday night, declaring that it “does not recognise the self-proclaimed president Juan Guaido” in Venezuela.
Italy not recognizing Guaido as Venezuelan interim president: Deputy FM
„Italy does not recognize Guaido because we absolutely oppose the fact that a country or a group of third countries can determine internal policies of another country. This is called the principle of non-interference and has been recognized by the United Nations,“ Di Stefano, told the Tv2000 broadcaster on Thursday.
Eastern Mediterranean countries to form regional gas market
The others involved are Cyprus, Greece, Israel, Italy, Jordan and the Palestinians. Other Eastern Mediterranean countries and transitory countries may join the forum later, the ministry said in a statement.
After EU forces Italy to reduce planned deficit from 2.4% to 2%, France is permitted 3.2%.
Italian forces train Iraqi Rapid Response Units in Baghdad
The military units take part in „counter-terrorism“ training at a military base inside Baghdad International Airport on Tuesday.
‚Italians will SUFFER!‘ Tajani WARNS ‚isolated‘ Italy change budget or face CONSEQUENCES
He said: „Italy seems to me isolated.
„Italy must not threaten. It seems that the government has understood the mistakes, but we will see if it will change.
„If it doesn’t, Italians will suffer. We’ll see. I do not think there’s a desire to change, but we’ll see.“
EU Is Not At „War“ With Italy, Juncker Says After Budget Row Meeting
„I made it very clear that we are not [at] war with Italy. Italia for me is a lifelong story because I grew up with young Italians, immigrants […] Ti amo Italia,“ Juncker said in Brussels.
The Italian part of his remarks translate as „I love you Italy“.
On Saturday, Juncker hosted a dinner with Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, who emerged from the meeting saying he hoped to avoid EU punitive action.
Pensions move to up spending, youth hit
(13.11.2018) Changes in the pension system planned by the government that would effectively lower the retirement age, allowing people to end their working lives when their age and number of years of social-security contributions reach 100, would have negative effects, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said Tuesday.
Cyprus, Israel, Greece, Italy close to East Med pipe line deal: report
Four Mediterranean countries, Cyprus, Greece, Italy and Israel are close to an agreement to construct the world’s longest undersea pipeline to transfer natural gas from the eastern Mediterranean energy fields to Europe, a Cypriot government source was quoted as saying on Sunday.
Italy to resist budget pressure ahead of EU elections
Leaders of Rome’s populist government said they would press ahead with expanding the deficit next year, a day after the European Commission kicked off disciplinary procedures against Italy over that plan in a dispute that has alarmed the whole euro zone.
Libyan fund: 5 EU countries released Gaddafi’s frozen money
(16.11.2018) Questions about mystery payments from the Libyan dictator’s supposedly frozen billions in Europe have already become a hot political issue in Belgium, because significant sums flowed out of accounts in Brussels.
But the Libyan Investment Authority’s announcement is the first time an official state body has said that countries other than Belgium may also have wrongly implemented the U.N.’s 2011 sanctions regime against Libya, and raises more questions about how much of Libya’s wealth has been transferred to unknown recipients since 2011.
Italy not changing budget plans as Commission talks continue – Tria
Italy is continuing discussions with the European Commission on its contested 2019 budget, but the government has no intention of changing its plans, Italian Economy Minister Tria told reporters on Monday.
Iran to send naval vessels to Italy
He made the remarks in a meeting with the second-in-command of the Italian navy on the sidelines of 10th anniversary of IONS establishment in Kochi, a major port city on the southwest coast of India.
Italian military mulls smaller GEO satellites so it can launch them on Vega rockets
The Italian Ministry of Defense may use two satellites to replace a single existing satellite so that it can use the Italian-led Vega C or Vega E rocket, according to a defense official.
Lt. Col. Luigi Mauro, head of the Italian Ministry of Defence’s Satcom Systems Section, said the Italian government approved last year a replacement for Sicral-1B, a 3,000-kilogram military communications satellite that launched on a Sea Launch Zenit-3SL rocket to geostationary-transfer orbit in 2009.
Italy’s Tria says budget will not change, debt to fall
Italy’s Finance Minister Giovanni Tria said on Monday the country’s budget for next year will not change despite calls from EU peers and the EU Commission to amend it so that it would be in line with European Union laws.
Debate: Is Italy going the way of Greece in 2015?
The Italian government elected this summer has a number of similarities with the SYRIZA-Independent Greeks coalition that came into office in Greece in early 2015 and jolted the eurozone with its apparently defiant policy that led to a three-week shutdown of the country’s banks, the imposition of strict capital controls, a divisive referendum and a fresh bailout program worth 86 billion euros. Now it is Rome that appears to be pursuing a quasi-defiant policy toward the eurozone.
Olmert: Send us ‘real soldiers, not pensioners’
(3.August 2006) The ground battle inLebanon is widening, but on the eve of a new United Nations Security Council decision on the Israeli- Hizbullah conflict, its days may be numbered. Prime Minister Ehud Olmert is already dealing with “the day after,” the diplomatic arrangement that will install an international force north of the Blue Line to replace the Israeli army.
Sudan, Italy agree to enhance joint cooperation
For her part, Del Re has praised Sudan’s efforts to resolve regional issues under the auspices of the regional bloc, Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).
Five Star Movement convention concludes in Rome
A two-day convention organized by Italy’s anti-establishment Five Star Movement has wrapped up in Rome. Thousands of attendees expressed support for the Italian government’s plan to flout the EU’s budgetary rules.
Italy risks clash with Britain and EU as it threatens to veto renewal of Russia sanctions
During a visit to Moscow, Matteo Salvini, Italy’s staunchly pro-Moscow deputy prime minister, said that Rome might block the renewal of sanctions that have been in place since 2014 when Russia annexed Crimea.
Raw Politics: Italy defends its budget brussing off EU criticism
Italy is risking a clash with the EU over its budget and its threat to veto the renewal of Russian sanctions.
Italy Nationalist Salvini Thinks About Becoming the New Jean-Claude Juncker
Lined up against him is French President Emmanuel Macron, who is seeking to unify Europe’s mainstream parties in defense of European principles and greater integration
Italy MORE Eurosceptic than Britain: Only 44% of Italians believe it’s worth being in EU
TENSIONS between Italy and the EU may result in a new revolt as only 44 percent of Italian people now believe Italy has benefited from its membership to the Brussels bloc, the latest European Commission poll has revealed.
Italian bonds sell off as key EU official says Brussels is ‚very likely‘ to reject its budget plan
he European Union is „very likely“ to reject Italy’s controversial new budget proposals, according to the EU’s budget commissioner.
A publication in German media outlet Der Spiegel had earlier reported that the EU had already rejected its draft spending plan and a letter to that effect was already on its way to Rome.
Anti-austerity demonstration fills up central Rome square
Rome, December 18 – Rome’s central Piazza del Popolo was filling up with protesters from the anti-austerity Pitchfork Movement as demonstrators prepared to launch a large-scale protest against the government Wednesday.
EU ‘needs another crisis’ to finish banking union
(16.5.2018) “I have the impression that [EU member states] have the false impression that everything’s fine, but everything’s not fine and the job is half done,” Olivier Guersent, director general for financial stability, financial services and capital markets union, said at the annual conference of the Single Resolution Board (SRB) in Brussels.
Politicians need “a big enough crisis for them to be scared enough, but not big enough to kill us”, to finish the banking union project, he added.
EU Bank Rescue Board Says Fund Will Hold €33B In 2019
Europe’s fund for helping failing banks is expected to swell to almost €33 billion ($38 billion) in 2019, up from nearly €25 billion earlier this year,
Italian economy minister hails ‚historic‘ banking deal
As well, the board’s decisions must be approved by EU finance ministers, leading some critics to say the process will be very complex. In a second step, governments will contribute to a resolution fund by imposing levies on banks over 10 years for a total of about 55 billion euros.
Italians Rally in Support of Mayor Indicted for Aiding Refugees
Hundreds of protesters turned out to support pro-immigration Italian mayor, ‘Mimmo’ Lucano for helping Nigerian woman escape forced prostitution.
In Italy, The Slaughtering of Trees in Support of the Restructuring of US Camp Darby Military Base
Since March 2017, enormous ships have been calling at Livorno on a monthly basis. The ships unload and load weapons that are continuously transported to the ports of Aqaba in Jordan, Jeddah in Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern ports. U.S. forces and allies use these weapons in the wars in Syria, Iraq and Yemen.
Libya resolution: UN security council air strikes vote – as it happened
(17.3.2011) 7.16pm ET: Italy announces it is opening its air force and naval bases in Sicily for operations against Libya – the obvious spot to base US and British jets.
The Berlusconi government may have had relatively warm relations with Libya, but Italy’s Nato obligations gave it little choice but to allow other members to use its bases.
Italy’s role in the war on Libya
(14.5.2011) Italy has actively participated in the bombing of Libya since April 28. Day and night, Italian fighter jets take off from Birgi Trapani air force base in Sicily and from the aircraft carrier Garibaldi to drop their deadly cargo over the former Italian colony.
Italian president: ‚Migrants are the new slaves‘
Italy’s migrants are often victims of new forms of slavery, President Sergio Mattarella said today, urging Italians not to “look away” from the problem.
Italy market watchdog head resigns amid political pressure
Nava, 52, was the European Commission’s director for financial system surveillance and crisis management until he was appointed Consob head earlier this year.
Cops raid ministry in bridge collapse
Finance police on Wednesday raided the offices of the transport ministry, the public works authority in Liguria and Spea Engineering in a probe into the August 14 collapse of Genoa’s Morandi Bridge that killed 43, sources said.
The police seized documents at all the offices, the sources said.
The raids took place in Rome, Milan, Florence and Genoa, sources said.
Failure of the Left Leaves Italy a Victim of the Market
(24.6.2018) At the end of last month, European Commissioner Günther Oettinger scolded rebellious Italian voters who are fed up with European Union bureaucrats and European Central bankers dominating their country. “The market will teach Italians how to vote,” Oettingerm said.
He had made this remark when it seemed Italy was heading toward fresh elections after the latest political crisis. At the time the spread between Italian and German bonds jumped more than 300 points, aggravating Italy’s heavy public debt. In other words, Oettinger was convinced that the need for financial stability would force upstart Italian voters to get back in line with what the bankers want.
Forza Fr Fromenton of Spoleto, and Pope Francis, in facing down the Lega’s racist ‚Christians‘, while Italy’s largest left-wing party “…appears cowed in the face of Salvini’s vitriolic immigration stance, fearing it will lose support”. Sound familiar?
Salvini agrees with Lieberman: Northern League leader on second day of visit to Israel
(30.3.2016) Salvini said that the pair also agreed on the need to intervene „in any way possible“ against ISIS, including with action on the ground, „above all in Libya“.
He said they both thought that migrant flows brought „dangers of all kinds“. Salvini also visited Jerusalem’s Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum and blasted Islamist extremists as today’s Nazis.
„The new Nazis are those who kill in the name of Allah,“ he said.
Vice Premier and Minister of Interior @matteosalvinimi expressed „solidarity to the Israeli colleague Minister of Culture and Sport @regev_miri, because it is not possible that hatred, threats and violence could block even a peaceful sport event“. #Israele #Argentina
(6.6.2018)
European Advisory Board – Open Society Foundations: Federico Fubini
As a board member, Fubini brings economic expertise and important insights and connections to members of Italy’s media and political institutions. He is an insightful analyst both of the Italian and of the European economic and political scenes, and an influential opinion maker in his home country.
Italy worse than EU for poverty. Almost 1 in 3 at risk | #ANSA
A parallel currency for Italy is possible
By activating a Fiscal Money program, Italy would solve its output gap problem without asking anything of anybody. No European treaty revisions would be required. No financial transfers would be needed. Public debt would stop growing and start declining relative to GDP, thus attaining the EU fiscal goals under the Maastricht Treaty.
EU have killed the Economies in Greece, Italy & Spain. Southern Europe is in a mess. Have you seen the unemployment figures for people U/24? 40-50% out of work. The Euro has been an utter disaster, caused poverty, all cos the EU want to turn Europe in a State. Bolloxs to them.
8.5% of Italy’s population live in absolute poverty – people living on food stamps type thing…
Italian election 2018: Renzi says vote for him is a vote for ‘United States of EUROPE’
(1.3.2018) MATTEO Renzi has urged Italian supporters of anti-establishment 5 Star Movement’s (M5S) to remember they are “voting for government not fantasy football” when they head to the polls in the Italian elections 2018.
#BREAKING Italy’s interior minister says to visit Libya Monday amid migrant crisis
Italy, Malta refuse to take in another refugee ship
The Sunday scenario was an exact repeat of an earlier drama involving Italy and Malta, when they barred the French charity-run Aquarius rescue ship, carrying 630 migrants, from docking at their ports.
Roma register unconstitutional -justice
Giorgio Lattanzi, the president of Italy’s Constitutional Court, said Friday that forming a register of people of Roma ethnicity would be a breach of the charter.
Angela Merkel begs Italy’s PM Giuseppe Conte to attend migrant summit
The Italian prime minister, Giuseppe Conte, yesterday threatened to pull out of an emergency European migration summit called to help save Angela Merkel’s government, and had to be won round in phone calls with the embattled German chancellor.
Europe’s Fragile Unity Crumbles as Migration Quarrel Spills Over
The issue has returned most visibly in Italy, where Matteo Salvini, leader of the anti-immigrant League, lost no time in falling out with some close European allies over his decision to deny access to port for a refugee vessel. But it’s also forced uncomfortable decisions in Spain and is threatening Chancellor Angela Merkel, who faces renewed domestic turbulence over her open-door stance on migrants that could yet spell her early departure.
Euro partners warn new Italy government against ’suicide mission‘
(24.5.2018) Italy’s partners in the euro lined up in Brussels on Thursday to urge the new government in Rome to stick to EU budget rules or risk following Greece into financial calamity that would hurt the whole of Europe.
Italy must solve debt problem on own: This is a thing for Italians says Scholz
Italy must solve its debt problem on its own, German Finance Minister Olaf Scholz said Friday.
Di Maio: “We remain in NATO and US allies, but we talk with Russia. Government not supine to the will of others “
But now they have understood that there is a government that does not say yes about everything, that it is ready to collaborate but in the interest of the Italians „.
7 mn Italians in debt for medical care
Some 2.8 million Italians have been forced to dip into their savings and even sell their homes, it said.
Basic income is priority – Di Maio
„We’ll get it there because we have the men (needed) to be treated on the same terms as the other European countries“. He also said that the new government will abolish the centre-left’s Jobs Act labour reform „at once“ because this has „made work precarious“.
„Work is necessary for everyone and it must be dignified. You cannot have starvation salaries,“ he said.
US not worried about Italy – Mnuchin: Important for Italy to stay in eurozone says Treasury secretary
United States Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin replied „absolutely not“ when asked if he was worried about the new government in Italy on the fringes of the meeting of G7 finance ministers and central bank governors in Whistler, Canada.
New Conte govt takes over: Basic income says Di Maio, agree with Church on migrants-Salvini
New Interior Minister Salvini said new EU Minister Paolo Savona will try to „renegotiate certain EU rules.“ Salvini also said he would find „convergence“ with the Catholic Church on his planned crackdown on undocumented migrants. „I have started to cultivate useful and numerous relations with various exponents of the Catholic world,“ said the anti-migrant League leader. „We’ll work together, we’ll amaze you, we will decidedly find convergences“.
Italy: Conte and cabinet sworn in at Quirinale Palace
The new Italian government, led by Giuseppe Conte, was sworn in at Quirinale Palace in Rome on Friday.
EU debate LIVE: Juncker makes shock demand for Brussels to STAND UP to ‚rampant populism‘
(30.5.2018) Mr Oettinger was forced to apologise for his comments after Italy’s populist Five Star Movement and Lega, reacted strongly to the calling the statement “absurd”.
European Council President Donald Tusk, tweeted an “appeal” to EU institutions, saying “please respect the voters, we are there to serve them, not to lecture them”.
Dutch central bank says Italy among risk
The Dutch central Bank, the DNB, mentioned Italy as a risk factor in its spring Financial Stability Report on Friday. „One of the main threats to financial stability is a sudden increase in interest rates due to growing risk premiums,“ the report said.
Storm over Juncker ‚lazy and corrupt‘
„Italians corrupt and lazy?,“ Salvini said on Facebook. „Shameful and racist words, with the next government we will see we get the rights and dignity of 60 million Italians respected, who expect collaboration and not insults from Europe“.
Juncker: Italians need to work harder and be less corrupt
European commission president says Italy’s problems can’t all be blamed on the EU
Paolo Savona, the finance minister proposed by Italy’s populist government and rejected by the president because his Euroscepticism will now be…the EU minister.
Salvini, Di Maio meet for govt talks
Rome Tor Vergata University economics lecturer Giovanni Tria is now being touted as a possible economy minister, sources said.
Savona would move to European affairs and Enzo Moavero Milanesi, a former EU affairs minister, would be foreign minister, the sources said.
Italy’s 5-Star chief appeals to League to back down on Savona
The leader of Italy’s anti-establishment 5-Star Movement on Wednesday appealed to the far-right League to drop its insistence that euroskeptic economist Paolo Savona should be economy minister in a government of the two parties.