Premier Matteo Renzi said in
a letter published by Rome-based daily La Repubblica on Thursday
that the European Union was worse off than eight years ago
because it had taken the wrong direction by adopting austerity
policies rather than trying to foster growth.
"In recent years Europe has taken the wrong road," Renzi
wrote in response to a question about a proposal for a so-called
'super finance minister' for the eurozone.
"The problem of the European economy is not the super
minister, but its direction.
"If we wish the European institutions well, we have to
make our voice heard. We are doing this for Europe, not for
Italy.
"In eight years with a Democratic Party president, the
United States has banked on growth, investment and innovation.
Europe (banked on) austerity, currency, rigour.
"In economic terms, the United States is better off than
eight years ago, Europe is worse off than eight years ago.
"(US President Barack) Obama has done well, (former
European Commission President José Manuel) Barroso no. Austerity
is not enough".
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