C o m m u n i q u é
The President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, sent the following message to the President-elect of the Federal Republic of Germany, Frank Walter Steinmeier:
«On the day of your election as President of the Federal Republic of Germany, on behalf of myself and of all the Italian people, allow me to express my most heartfelt congratulations and hearty wishes for your top-ranking office.
Germany and Italy are bound by a well consolidated friendship and a common and shared vision: that of a peaceful, integrated Europe based on solidarity. A Europe capable of promoting and fostering principles and rights, internally achieving growth, employment and social justice and, at the same time, of assuming an authoritative role at international level.
This is the goal that our Countries naturally aim for, being fully aware of the challenges and difficulties that stand in the way but convinced that nothing but a united Europe will be able to continue assuring peace, well-being and progress to our societies.
With these wishes - and hoping to soon have the opportunity to welcome you to Italy - I renew my sincerest congratulations and wish prosperity to our friends, the people of Germany.»
Rome, 13 February 2017
