Undersecretary Ivan Scalfarotto held a videoconference today with the Deputy Foreign Minister of the Czech Republic Chmelař.
The meeting is part of an ongoing and complex bilateral dialogue between the two countries with well-established bilateral relations, particularly in the economic sphere.
While thanking the Government of Prague for its support during the Covid crisis, the Undersecretary emphasised the importance of a cohesive approach by the EU beginning with the ongoing negotiations for the Recovery Fund. It is, in fact, a key step for the prospects of European integration and economic recovery following the pandemic emergency.
Scalfarotto also highlighted the importance of a continued focus on the values of the European Union and therefore the key importance of commitment to the rule of law, not only for candidate countries but also for the EU Member States.
In this regard, Scalfarotto and Chmelar agreed on the importance of maintaining a credible path for the countries of the Balkan area committed to implementing the reform processes agreed with the institutions in Brussels.
Furthermore, issues relating to the WTO situation and international trade (in particular with respect to China, the United States and Mercosur) were also discussed in depth. Finally, the meeting was also an opportunity for a far-reaching discussion on the key areas of common interest between Italy and the Czech Republic such as migration issues (in this respect, Scalfarotto highlighted the need to amend the Dublin regulation, in particular recognising the specific situation of people rescued at sea in accordance with international obligations) and on the possible bilateral economic cooperation starting with the transport and tourism sectors.