Meloni's First Parliamentary Speech as Italian Prime Minister: "Will Stand with the EU and Support Ukraine"

[Photo by AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Byung-hee] Giorgia Meloni, Italy's new prime minister who was called the "female Mussolini" and "the most dangerous woman in Europe" before taking office, emphasized on the 25th (local time) in her first parliamentary speech that she will stand with the European Union (EU). This is interpreted as a move to dispel domestic and international concerns.

Meloni, who took office on the 22nd, delivered her first parliamentary speech as prime minister for about 60 minutes ahead of the lower house confidence vote on her cabinet. The speech attracted international attention as it provided insight into Meloni's future government policy direction.

Meloni reaffirmed her respect for EU rules and support for Ukraine resisting Russia's threats.

She emphasized that the right-wing coalition she leads will not oppose EU integration. Meloni said, "We will work with other EU member states in a practical, not idealistic, manner" and "we will protect freedom and democracy."

In particular, she stressed continued support for Ukraine together with the EU. Meloni said, "We face great difficulties that the EU was unprepared for," adding, "Succumbing to Putin's energy blackmail is not a solution."

However, Meloni stated that she will strongly demand reforms within the EU. She said, "As a founding member, Italy will raise its voice loudly within the EU," and "not to delay or obstruct European integration, but to find the best way to cope with the current energy crisis and foreign threats." She also criticized the European Central Bank (ECB) for its hasty interest rate hikes.

Meloni devoted considerable time to condemning extremism, including fascism. This was intended to dispel domestic and international concerns that the emergence of a far-right party prime minister for the first time in 100 years would hinder EU integration.

Meloni said, "I have never felt sympathy or affinity for anti-democratic regimes, including fascism," and "in the same way, I consider the 1938 (anti-Semitic) racial laws as the lowest moment in Italy's history. It is a shame that has forever stained our people." She repeatedly emphasized that she would rather protect democratic values.

Meloni said, "I am aware of the prejudices against me and our government," and "I will work hard to surprise everyone again."

Meloni also emphasized that Italy will not be submissive and will protect the interests of Italian companies and industries. She sent a warning message to greedy foreign investors and welcomed foreign companies that make mutually beneficial investments with Italy.

Meloni stressed that reducing unemployment and growing the economy are her priorities, highlighting tax cuts and benefits for small and medium-sized enterprises. She also emphasized that the way to reduce Italy's high public debt will not be through blind austerity but through economic growth policies.

The confidence vote on the new cabinet led by Meloni was passed with 235 votes in favor and 154 against. Out of 400 members of the lower house, 389 voted, and 5 abstained.

Since the right-wing coalition led by Meloni secured a majority in both houses in last month's general election on the 25th, the confidence vote was expected to pass smoothly. The confidence vote scheduled for the upper house on the 26th is also expected to pass without difficulty.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.