«Raffaele Fitto has demonstrated that he knows how to manage the delegations that Giorgia Meloni has entrusted to him in Italy. And in Brussels he will do just as well, thanks to his experience and his honesty”: Renato Perrini, group leader of the Brothers of Italy in the Puglia Regional Council and who has always been particularly close to the new vice-president of the European Commission, has no doubts.
Councilor, what value does Fitto’s appointment have?
«It is a historic achievement for Puglia, for the South and for Italy, which have never been so central in Europe. And, above all, a great opportunity for these territories.”
For what reason?
«Fitto will directly manage a trillion-dollar portfolio, the reform of the cohesion funds, the final phase of the national Pnrr and future reforms linked to budget policies. And, as executive vice president, he will have supervision over agriculture and fishing, transport and tourism, maritime economy and social housing. All fundamental matches for Italy and Puglia.”
Why, in your opinion, did Meloni propose Fitto as commissioner?
«Raffaele is an honest and loyal politician and administrator, as well as very expert. And in Italy he has demonstrated that he knows how to manage the delegations that the Prime Minister has entrusted to him well.”
Yet the left hindered Fitto’s nomination…
«Not only that: the left first tried to minimize the role and delegations entrusted to Fitto in Europe, then tried in every way to ensure that he did not obtain them. But Italians have their pockets full of this policy that looks out for its own interests and not the good of the national team. And, fortunately, the President of the Republic and many men from the institutions, including those from the centre-left, appreciated and supported Fitto’s appointment as European Commissioner”.
How does it feel to see your mentor at the top of continental politics?
«Between me and Raffaele there is a friendship based on loyalty and honesty. I was at his side even in the most difficult moments because I have great respect for him and his family. So I’m proud and excited.”
