On 29-30 March, ALDE Party member Azione in Italy held a party Congress inviting various political leaders to debate on the current challenges facing Italy and the rest of the world.
The focus of the Congress was on the need to create unity between all willing pro-European forces in Italy to support a truly pro-European agenda, including the construction of a European pillar within NATO and firm support for Ukraine.
Party leader and founder Carlo Calenda, who was confirmed as national secretary, stressed Azione’s democratic nature lies in seeking a dialogue with political opponents instead of ignoring them.
“Azione continues to be where the Italian citizens put it: at the centre and in opposition to the Meloni government. Today, we are the only party that presides over this central area open to all those who want to build something bigger with honour, dignity, mutual respect. This is the path of our community made up of different people united by a dream that is Italy,” said Calenda.
Participants engaged in several panel debates on defence, the future of the EU, the Italian economy and women’s rights while high-level attendees such as ALDE Party Vice-President Malik Azmani MEP (VVD, NL) addressed Azione members.
“We need Italian liberals to build pragmatic answers to the challenges facing Europe, and most importantly its citizens. Our companies and entrepreneurs are the beating heart of our economy. Instead of burdening them, we must categorically support their growth and competitiveness so that they create jobs and economic growth,” said Vice-President Azmani.
The two-day meeting concluded with the election of Elena Bonetti as party President while Giulia Pastorella and Emma Fattorini were confirmed as Vice-Presidents.
Photo: Azione