The Italian Ambassador to Paris, Emanuela D’Alessandro, was received last Thursday at the Quai d’Orsay, the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, following recent comments made by Italian Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini regarding French President Emmanuel Macron.
The news, reported by Le Figaro, was confirmed by diplomatic sources, who clarified that the meeting was not a formal summons but rather a diplomatic encounter.
The controversy erupted after Salvini, during an event in Milan, referred to Macron as “crazy” and criticized the idea of a European army led by the French president, accusing him of discussing “nuclear war.”
These remarks were deemed to be “contradictory to the Quirinale Treaty,” the bilateral agreement that governs the relationship between Italy and France.
During the meeting at Quai d’Orsay, French authorities expressed their dissatisfaction with Salvini’s comments, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a respectful dialogue between the two nations.
The Italian Embassy confirmed the meeting, reiterating that it was not a formal action but an opportunity to clarify positions.
Relations between Italy and France, already strained by disagreements on issues such as immigration and European policy, appear to be further complicated.
Salvini’s remarks have sparked mixed reactions in Italy, with some political figures criticizing the deputy prime minister for stoking unnecessary tensions.
The meeting at Quai d’Orsay represents a delicate moment in the relationship between Italy and France. As both countries seek to maintain diplomatic balance, Salvini’s words risk leaving a lasting impact on an already complex bilateral relationship.