15 Settembre 2026

The President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, met with the President of the European Council, António Costa, at Palazzo Chigi today, as part of his tour of the 27 EU Member State capitals, to discuss the main issues on the European and international agenda, starting with the negotiations on the new Multiannual Financial Framework 2028-2034.

President Meloni first confirmed Italy’s determination to work towards an EU budget that is fit for the Union’s strategic priorities, starting with the Common Agricultural Policy and Cohesion Policy, which are provided for by the Treaties and continue to form the basis of Europe’s competitiveness and economic security. Furthermore, the new budget must provide adequate support for industry and research amid global competition and strengthen partnerships with the countries of origin and transit of irregular immigration flows. Italy is also ready to do its part with regard to the funding of the new Multiannual Financial Framework, as part of a balanced solution excluding new European taxes and rationalising the EU’s administrative expenditure.

President Meloni also agreed with President Costa’s proposal to put competitiveness at the top of the agenda for the next European Council meeting, highlighting in particular that ongoing energy price rises require targeted and immediate action at EU level, to support European citizens and businesses.

Lastly, President Meloni welcomed the fact that a strategic debate on immigration has been included on the meeting agenda, providing an opportunity to review Europe’s new approach to countering irregular immigration, innovative solutions, and the implementation of the new Return Regulation. In this context, there must be a particular focus on strengthening external border controls and consolidating partnerships with countries of origin and transit.