From Italy
Criticism of Macron’s policies and ‘yellow vest’ meeting causes biggest spat since WWII
FRANCE kept up pressure yesterday on Italy amid their biggest diplomatic spat since World War II, as business leaders appealed to their countries’ rulers to restore calm.
France’s government spokesperson said the recall of its ambassador to Italy is temporary, but sends an important signal toward its historical ally not to meddle in internal French affairs.
France and Italy are founding members of the EU, born from the ashes of WWII, and their unusual dispute is rippling around the continent at a time of growing tensions between nationalist and pro-eu forces.
French government spokesperson Benjamin Griveaux said yesterday on Europe-1 radio that the ambassador’s recall was prompted by months of “unfounded attacks” from Italian government members Luigi Di Maio and Matteo Salvini, who have criticised President Emmanuel Macron’s economic and migration policies.
But the main trigger for the crisis appeared to be Di Maio’s meeting in France this week with members of the “yellow vest” movement seeking seats in the European Parliament.
Griveaux said that the visit violated “the most elementary diplomacy” because it was unannounced. Referring to Italy’s populist leaders, he criticised a “nationalist leprosy” eating away at Europe’s unity and said EU members should “behave better toward partners.”
Italy’s foreign minister struck a conciliatory tone after the ambassador recall Thursday – but Italian Transport Minister Danilo Toninelli said his country’s populist 5-Star movement could offer the yellow vest movement technical support going forward. During a visit to Genoa, Toninelli mentioned free use of the 5-Star’s online portal, which allows registered party members to vote on policy decisions and candidates.
“If useful we can offer them a hand and do political activities in service of the French people,” Toninelli said. | African News Agency (ANA)