Foti takes the helm. On Monday, 64-year-old Tommaso Foti was inaugurated as Italy’s Minister for European Affairs, Southern Italy, Cohesion Policies, and the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP).
- A trusted ally of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Foti steps into the position previously held by Raffaele Fitto, who recently assumed the role of Executive Vice-President for Cohesion and Reforms at the European Commission.
- Meloni praised Foti’s “vast experience and skills,” noting his track record as the whip of Fratelli d’Italia in the Chamber of Deputies, where he demonstrated “leadership and competence”.
Contrasting political roots. Foti’s political career stands in stark contrast to that of his predecessor.
- While Fitto launched his career with the Christian Democracy party, Foti began at 16 as a member of the youth wing of the Italian Social Movement-National Right.
- Despite their differing origins, Meloni expressed confidence in Foti’s ability to approach his new role with the same “determination and attention to detail” that defined Fitto’s tenure, ensuring benefits for Italy and its citizens.
A new whip in the House. Foti’s move to the cabinet created a vacancy that has been filled by 49-year-old Galeazzo Bignami, who was appointed as the new party whip for Fratelli d’Italia.
- Bignami, previously serving as deputy minister of infrastructure, is expected to play a pivotal role in leading the governing party in parliament while Foti tackles his ministerial responsibilities.
NRRP’s unintended consequences. Foti inherits significant challenges, chief among them addressing the unintended effects of the NRRP.
- The intense focus on recovery plan implementation has sidelined efforts to fully utilise structural funds from the 2021-2027 EU budget.
- A report from Italy’s State Treasury shows that as of August 31, only 2.8% (€2.1 billion) of the €75 billion allocated to funds such as the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the Just Transition Fund has been spent.
- While commitments have risen to 12% from under 10% in April, the sluggish pace of payments underscores the urgency for action to unlock these essential resources for Italy’s economic growth.
A calculated decision. Foti’s appointment reflects a deliberate choice to maintain continuity within Fratelli d’Italia’s leadership over this portfolio.
- Speculation initially centred on the possibility of appointing a technocrat or redistributing responsibilities among coalition partners like Forza Italia or Lega.
- However, such moves risked destabilising the ruling coalition.
- By keeping the role within her party, Meloni has reinforced stability and quelled rumours of an imminent cabinet reshuffle.
