Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have come together in Rome for German-Italiangovernment consultations accompanied by several members of their respective cabinets. The meeting focused on discussions about cooperation between the two countries on political, economic, security, and cultural matters.
Government consultations are a well-established format for bilateral cooperation. They serve to align positions and coordinate ongoing projects between two governments. In Rome numerous ministerial-level meetings took place alongside the talks between the two heads of government
Meloni and Merz: Coordination at the European Level
The discussions took place against the backdrop of current challenges within the European Union. Germany and Italy are among the largest member states and are closely linked across many policy areas The Rome meeting was an opportunity to review existing lines of cooperation and explore possibilities for closer coordination.
Questions of European economic policy played a role, as did cooperation within international bodies. Specific policy commitments were not publicly detailed.
Economy, Industry, and Defense
A key focus of the consultations was economic and industrial policy. Both countries have well-developed industrial structures and face comparable challenges, including those related to energy supply, competitiveness, and supply chains. The discussions addressed how Germany and Italy can better coordinate their positions within the European Union, with the goal of maintaining a regular exchange on economic policy matters.
Security and defense policy aspects were also part of the consultations. The talks built on existing forms of cooperation and served to coordinate further initiatives, covering European security matters and collaboration in the defense industry. Cooperation takes place within the framework of existing international alliances and European structures.
Cultural Cooperation
In addition to political and economic topics, cultural cooperation was also on the agenda. Both governments emphasized the importance of cultural Projects for bilateral relations. The initiatives agreed upon are aimed at continuing the cultural exchange between Germany and Italy.
Among them is a planned cultural route through Italy, inspired by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's journey to Italy. It is to be complemented by exhibitions, digital offerings, and further exchange formats. Cooperation in the field of literary translation is also set to continue.
Migration and further talks
Migration was likewise on the agenda. Both sides exchanged views on existing European approaches and current challenges . Public statements remained general in nature.
The consultations in Rome served overall to align political positions and continue existing cooperation formats. Further talks between Germany and Italy are planned.