Message from President Mattarella on the occasion of the Forum organised by The European House - Ambrosetti

The President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, sent the following message on the occasion of the Forum organised by The European House - Ambrosetti:

«As in all previous editions, the Forum will provide an opportunity to compare respected opinions and to discuss the key issues of international affairs, with a focus on the challenges Europe and Italy must face in terms of growth outlook.

We are experiencing a historical moment that appears complex, characterised by a transition phase which declares that the existing balance is outdated. Yet there seems to be no commitment to building a new one. This phase – often looking to past eras that no longer exist – does nothing more than to question the values upon which national societies have built their present.

On the one hand, the number of global challenges to be solved through greater cooperation between states is rapidly increasing – from climate change to pandemic health crises, from the availability of energy, food and water resources to the impact of Artificial Intelligence. On the other hand, we are yet again witnessing a predatory claim on existing resources – both tangible and intangible – that goes hand in hand with an alarming tendency to restore power politics, threatening the use of force, or actually resorting to it, to support one’s own claims in the resolution of international disputes.

The concept of security for some would thus come about to the detriment of that of others, with a coercive view of interdependence that is reminiscent of colonial eras, turning back the hands of time of human civilisation.

Growing pressures on the multilateral order – set up in the past century, in the wake of the horrors of World War II – are driving short-sighted ideas and clouding the great benefits that order has brought in terms of peace, independence, economic and social emancipation of vast areas of the world.

Over time, Forum Ambrosetti has indeed monitored these developments.

If we look at the prospects for the near future and the signs sparking the greatest concern in terms of instability or conflict, it is generally believed that right now, in the very moment the stability and effectiveness of this order are most needed, it appears to be under threat, with its rules and practices put to the test.

Yet, it is hardly necessary to recall the human, political, economic and social costs of disorder, conflict and war.

An analysis of these aspects alone would suffice to conclude that power politics and conflicts embody a lack of vision of the future rather than a proper planning, and that they bring no real benefit to either the supposed victors or the defeated.

Preserving an international order that respects the dignity of individuals and peoples calls for a swift assessment of what is to be reformed and adapted to present-day reality, which radically differs from the conditions of the post-World War II years, so as to make it more appropriate and effective.

This need for evolution and reform, while concerning the global community, also relates, in many ways, to the European integration process.

The European Union is still the world’s most remarkable example of shared sovereignty, underpinned by common values, capable of ensuring widespread peace, rights and prosperity for a group of states that, for centuries, had been used to fighting one another.

Its achievements are unquestionable – hence are sometimes envied and opposed – as is its appeal, which remains as strong and vital as ever.

Its drive to establish outward-looking partnerships based on mutual benefit – starting from the economy and trade – with several partners is currently gaining momentum, as the number of free trade agreements recently signed with states and groups of states across all continents clearly shows.

We should be proud of this cooperative international relations model, which offers an alternative to the idea that the only parameters are the law of the jungle or predatory profit: as in all strategic areas where the Union operates, it is indeed the individual who takes centre stage.

This essential choice has enabled the EU to devise an ambitious and advanced continental project, which focuses on aspects such as social inclusion and environmental protection, together with economic growth.

By no means is the European Union considering waiving its values; actually, it seems to be more necessary than ever for setting the liveability standards for the peoples of the entire planet.

Its contribution to a fair and shared international order is precious, and in this regard, Europe must be able to take the initiative, rather than adopting a merely defensive stance.

The necessary and pressing changes in the functioning of its institutions and their configuration, in the promptness of decision-taking and in its priorities are pivotal for upholding the will expressed by the sovereign peoples gathered under it.

In its several countries, civil society and the business sector are aware that they bear a special responsibility and play a role in keeping the Union relevant, making sure it has its own identity and that it may continue to represent a virtuous model and a blueprint for international relations.

We cannot afford to hesitate in the current international context.

A clear course of action is needed to make sure that peaceful coexistence may prevail once again within the Community of States, within a shared and respected legal and institutional framework.

Without this prerequisite, the very prospects of a prosperous global economy enjoying steady and lasting growth will be severely tested.

The topics to be addressed during the various sessions will be food for thought, leading to ideas and proposals.

I wish all participants a very fruitful session».