Premier Matteo Renzi called for
more investments in high-tech both within Italy and in Europe,
which must release innovation and research from what he called
"the chains" of the EU Growth and Stability Pact.
"If they want to leave the golden cage of bureaucracy they
should release all investments that create technology, research
and innovation from the chains of the Stability Pact," Renzi
said at a new Alcatel-Lucent plant opening near the northern
city of Monza.
The premier went on to say that while new OECD data showing
weakness in the eurozone is "very sad", the silver lining is
that it "proves if the eurozone changes, the global economy can
start growing again. This is why in Italy, we are battling to
change Europe".
Renzi said investing in the high-tech, digital and
broadband sectors is crucial for Italy, but right now is being
carried out by different ministries in a fragmented way.
"We need to centralize those investments," Renzi said.
After visiting the plant, Renzi met with a delegation from
FIOM, FIM and UILM metalworkers unions.
"We need to reform our innovation and digital sectors," the
premier told unions at the 10-minute meeting, which focused on
maintaining production in Italy.
Renzi said the government believes in the local Silicon
Valley, as the Brianza area around Monza is called due to its
clusters of high-tech industry.
"The Brianza Silicon Valley must have a future," he told
union delegates. "It is important to create a positive climate
to find solutions. I hope my presence here helps solve the
difficulties you are experiencing".
The premier spoke after angry protesters concerned about
layoffs at the telecommunications equipment plant earlier pelted
his staff car with eggs. Renzi was hustled through the side
door, unscathed.
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