The priorities of the Italian Presidency of the Council of the European Union were presented to the foreign diplomatic corps at the MFA in three meetings with various regional groups. The presidency’s underlying theme – “Europe: a fresh start” – dominated the meetings in which minister Federica Mogherini, Under-Secretary Benedetto Della Vedova and Secretary General Michele Valensise illustrated the salient aspects of the preparations over recent months leading to its launch by Italy on July 1st.
There are three pillars: growth and employment; citizenship and rights; and a greater international role for the European Union.
The Italian presidency will offer an opportunity for Rome and Milan to host major events, with the 18 informal EU ministers meetings and the summit of ASEM heads of state and government in October, which will also make it possible to create positive synergies with EXPO 2015.
