The Pescara G7 summit, to be held from tomorrow to Thursday, comes at a time of unprecedented international unrest – how worried are you, Minister Tajani?
“We are living in a period of extreme uncertainty. First came the invasion of Ukraine, then the 7 October attack by Hamas, and now the broadening of the crisis that also involves Lebanon and Iran. For this reason, every opportunity for meetings and dialogue with partners, allies, the countries concerned and local organisations is useful to take stock of the situation and discuss the next steps to be taken. The Italian government is increasing its diplomatic work. Whereas Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni went to Lebanon and Jordan last Friday, I have just got back from a mission to Israel and the Palestinian Territories. The goal is to put an end to this phase of military confrontation as soon as possible and speed up political and diplomatic exchanges.”
What will the take-away message from the G7 in Pescara be?
“In Pescara, we will touch on global issues of collective interest – from food security to global health, from access to water to the links between finance and climate. In addition to the G7 countries, other partners will be present (Kenya, Senegal, Norway, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, Uganda), along with international organisations (such as the agencies of United Nations Roman-Based Agencies, FAO, IFAD, WFP, the World Health Organisation, UNDP, the African Union) and private sector companies (from pharmaceutical companies to representatives of the Italian and international coffee industry). We thus want these meetings to send out a message of unity and coordinated and synergic action on complex issues that we cannot think of tackling alone, either as governments, organisations or companies. Only together can we be incisive and effective.”
A humanitarian conference for the Middle East will be held in Pescara, which you yourself promoted – what do you expect from this event?
“We will open this G7 with a special session on the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East, in light of what is happening there. We must ensure joint action to secure humanitarian access in Gaza, also through the “Food for Gaza” initiative led by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and in Lebanon. I expect a clear strategy to emerge from the discussion on how to help the local populations in Lebanon and Gaza – the real victims of this conflict – more effectively.”
Let us take a step back – why did you choose Pescara as the venue for the G7 Development?
“The Italian Presidency of the G7 gives us the opportunity to enhance the artistic and cultural heritage of our local areas. This is why the various ministerial meetings are held in different locations. It is also a way to introduce global leaders to Italy and stimulate tourism and investment. Pescara was a specific choice I made because I am familiar with local hospitality and expertise. The G7 ministers will be able to appreciate history, art, culture, and the welcoming spirit that characterises the whole of Abruzzo.”
In the meantime, a “No G7 Group” has been set up in Pescara, which includes Rifondazione Comunista, Avs, trade unions, and environmentalist associations. They say that the G7 will be “just a catwalk” – what is your rebuttal?
“I believe in freedom of thought and the right to express one’s dissent in a civilised fashion. However, as a politician, I believe that this will be an important event for Pescara and for the whole of Abruzzo, which will become an international showcase and become known abroad. It is an opportunity for everyone, institutions and citizens alike.”
Between works and tenders, Pescara is in turmoil. To your knowledge, is the city ready to host this international event?
“The time has come – local authorities, Mayor Carlo Masci and Commissioner Carlo Solimene have always responded enthusiastically to this event. I am positive that Pescara will welcome us to the best of its potential. We will hold the main events at the Aurum, a historic distillery and now a “Factory of Ideas” – a landmark for Pescara, which was part of an urban development plan that has enhanced the entire area and renewed the city’s projection towards the future.”
We’re almost there now. Would you still choose Pescara?
“Of course, all problems will be addressed and solved, and Pescara will become the centrepiece of the Italian government’s foreign policy.”
