European Commission
President Jean-Claude Juncker on Friday hit back a criticism of
the EU executive from Italian Premier Matteo Renzi.
"I think that the Italian prime minister, whom I love very
much, is wrong to offend the Commission at every opportunity, I
don't see why he does it," he said.
"In truth, Italy should not criticise it too much. We have
introduced (budget) flexibility against the will of member
States who some say dominate Europe".
Juncker admitted that relations between the EC and Italy
were not going well at the moment.
"I'll probably go to Italy at the end of February because
the atmosphere between Italy and the Commission is not the
best," Juncker said.
"Renzi always complains that I have not been to Italy
since I became president".
Renzi has frequently criticised the European Union, saying
it is too focused on budget austerity and dominated by
bureaucrats and does not give enough importance to promoting
growth and employment.
Rome also reacted angrily when the Commission opened
infringement proceedings last year against Italy for failing to
respect the rules on taking the finger prints of asylum seekers.
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