Italian Prime Minister Meloni Requests Budget Flexibility from the European Union

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated during the MED9 summit held in Split, Croatia, that she is demanding greater flexibility in European Union budget rules due to global energy prices and high inflation.

Statements Made at the MED9 Summit

Attending the MED9 summit held in Split, Croatia, which brings together nine southern European Union countries, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni held a press conference following the summit.

Emphasis on Billions of Euros in Additional Burden

Answering a question regarding Italy's request for more budget flexibility from the European Union due to inflation, Meloni stated that their demand is not arbitrary and that there will be an additional burden of billions of euros on their budgets.

Inflation and Cost Increases

Meloni emphasized that inflation rates are well above the levels projected three years ago, significantly increasing costs for all member states.

Importance of the Southern Flank

Stating that attention has been focused on the eastern flank due to the Russia-Ukraine War, Meloni underlined that the importance of Europe's southern flank must by no means be ignored.