Economy Minister Pier Carlo
Padoan on Friday denied the European Commission allegations that
Italy was blocking the approval of three billion euros in
financing to Turkey in exchange for cooperation on the refugee
crisis.
"Italy gives full backing to the support of Turkey to
manage the migrant flows," Padoan said.
"Italy is not blocking anything. But we believe it is
necessary to clarify whether there is still space in the
European budget to ensure that the three billion euros is fully
covered without using contributions from the (member) States."
Earlier on Friday European Commission President
Jean-Claude Juncker blasted Rome's stance on this issue.
"I struggle to understand Italy's amazing reservation
about the three billion euros to Turkey because the money is not
going to Turkey but is for Syrian refugees in Turkey," Juncker
said.
"These three billion are a question of credibility for the
EU".
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © Copyright ANSA
