Work on identifying new
sanctions against Russia over the crisis in Ukraine has begun,
Italian Foreign Minister Federica Mogherini said Tuesday in some
of her first comments as she prepares for her new role as the
European Union's high representative for foreign affairs.
Mogherini was speaking in Brussels to the foreign affairs
committee of the European Parliament where she talked about
possible sanctions in the financial sector, weapons and
technology.
She also spoke of priorities in dealing with the crisis in
Iraq created by the powerful Islamic militant group ISIS, as
part of several meetings planned this week on European issues
for Mogherini.
Following her appointment last Saturday, she is expected to
officially take on the new role on November 1 but is already
beginning to move into the position.
United States President Barack Obama congratulated both
Mogherini on her appointment as well as Donald Tusk, who takes
over as president of the European Council.
Her appointment has been greeted warmly by European leaders
including German Chancellor Merkel, who "was glad" to see
Mogherini in the top foreign affairs post, said spokesman
Steffen Seibert.
Premier Matteo Renzi noted that her work will be important
as Italy continues in the rotating presidency of the EU until
the end of this year.
Meanwhile Italian president Giorgio Napolitano said that
"Italy has gained significant recognition and, in particular,
has made a positive contribution," to the EU through Mogherini
and through the country's work in the rotating presidency.
Mogherini pledged to work hard for the EU as a whole and
dismissed critics who have said she is too young and
inexperienced for the post.
"All my work, my energy and my devotion will be dedicated
to serve the interest of all member States and all European
citizens," she said.
"I am 41 years old, not young," added Mogherini.
"What gives me comfort is that the Premier Renzi is younger
than me (at 39), other European ministers are (younger) as well,
there is a new generation of European leaders and this is very
positive".
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