The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation wishes to respond to an article that appeared today in the press concerning alleged cuts in funding for the European Southern Observatory at Paranal, in Chile. The Ministry can confirm that there has been no cut whatsoever in the Italian Government’s financial support for the Observatory, which draws on Italian expertise in the science and technology fields. Italy will continue to pay the full contribution due, including in the coming years, and will respect the commitments undertaken.
In the bill currently under discussion in Parliament, the Government has provided for a funding allocation in keeping with the effective needs of the Observatory, as requested by that body. The allocation also envisages a margin to allow for any unfavourable fluctuations in prices or exchange rates.
