The Italian Deputy Prime Minister and the President of Piedmont on a Visit to the Principality of Monaco

Today, Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani is on an official mission in the Principality of Monaco and Nice, aiming to strengthen ties between Italy and France, with a particular focus on economic, cultural, and infrastructural cooperation. Tajani reaffirmed the importance of continuing the path set out last year, with the goal of consolidating connectivity between the two countries and improving cross-border mobility.

While awaiting the meeting at Palazzo Masséna in Nice this afternoon with the French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, the Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs visited Prince Albert of Monaco together with the President of the Piedmont Region, Alberto Cirio.

During the meeting at the Prince’s Palace, bilateral cooperation was discussed, which the minister described as “excellent” and set to grow further. Priorities include expanding economic and cultural collaboration, as well as supporting the growing Italian community residing in the Principality.

Following this, Minister Tajani traveled to Nice, where he participated in the second meeting of the Italo-French cross-border cooperation committee, alongside his French counterpart Jean-Noël Barrot. The meeting, which involved authorities from regions, metropolitan cities, and municipalities in the border areas, focused mainly on connectivity. Tajani emphasized that “guaranteeing connectivity means stimulating the development and competitiveness of our territories,” particularly referring to ongoing work on cross-border passages.

Also present at this afternoon’s meeting was the regional councilor for cross-border workers and transportation, Marco Scajola, representing the Liguria Region.

Among the main topics discussed were improvements to mobility at the cross-border passages, such as those at Mont Blanc, Fréjus, and Tenda. The minister emphasized the importance of political and technical collaboration between Italy and France to accelerate the realization of essential infrastructure projects, including the second road tunnel at Fréjus and the new Tenda tunnel. The goal is to overcome any technical, bureaucratic, and political obstacles that may slow the progress of these strategic works.

Another important topic of discussion was the strengthening of maritime connections between the two countries, with a particular focus on links to Sardinia and Corsica. These connections are seen as a key factor in enhancing cross-border cooperation and promoting greater integration between Italy and France.