EU must be brave and accept Balkan countries

BERLIN, (Patria) - German-Italian relations are more important than ever as both countries face growing Eurosceptic sentiment, said German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier at a meeting with his Italian counterpart Sergio Mattarella, who believes the European Union must have the courage to complete the integration process for the Western Balkans.

"In Italy, the idea of a united Europe is belittled in many ways, and such voices are also heard here in Germany," said Steinmeier while receiving Mattarella on a state visit.

As founding members of the European Union, Germany and Italy have an important role in making the European project sustainable, Steinmeier assessed, as reported by dpa.

"In tomorrow's world, we as Europeans must be united if we want our voice to be heard and to help shape solutions to major challenges such as climate change, digitalization, and migration," the German agency quoted Steinmeier.

Mattarella also met with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Friday.

At such a complex stage as Europe is today, talking about the Union's enlargement seems unrealistic, said the Italian agency ANSA.

"But we must look long-term. The European Union must have the courage to complete the integration process. And this applies to the Western Balkan countries, which is why it is important for them to keep the prospect of joining the EU open," said Mattarella.

He thanked Chancellor Merkel for Berlin's help in overcoming the dispute between Rome and Brussels over the Italian budget, which was unacceptable to the European Commission.

"I appreciate the style of Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, he is very prudent," said the Chancellor, adding: "I focus more on him than on what individual ministers say."

The Italian coalition government was formed in June by the populist 5 Star Movement and the right-wing League party, led by anti-immigrant Interior Minister Matteo Salvini.

Bundestag President Wolfgang Schaeuble expressed his expectation at a meeting with the left-leaning Mattarella that pro-European forces will prevail and that alliances with Eurosceptic countries will not be formed.

Schaeuble emphasized the importance of the composition of the future European Parliament and wished that Italy and Germany would send a good message before the European elections in May.