Schulz congratulates new Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi

Following the vote of confidence of the Italian Parliament to the new Renzi executive, the President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz i stated:

"I congratulate Prime Minister i Matteo Renzi on the formation of the new government and on obtaining the confidence vote of the Italian Parliament.

Italy needs stability but also courage and dynamism to promote structural reforms in the country, give new impetus to growth and reduce unemployment, especially for the young. The formation of a government with many female ministers and young ministers is a promising sign.

Italy will soon be at the helm of the Council of Ministers of the European Union in a phase of political and institutional renewal. Its contribution will be key to further the process of political and economic integration of the European Union. In this respect, I particularly appreciated the words of Prime Minister Renzi on the role that Italy intends to play in shaping the future of Europe, which means shaping the future of our children.

I wish the new government every success with its newly assumed responsibility.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank former Prime Minister Enrico Letta for his leadership in a complex political and economic phase for Italy and Europe. He has kept public finances under control and pulled Italy out of its longest post-war recession.”