Premier Matteo Renzi said Friday
that Italian remained committed to the European Union after
Britain voted to leave the bloc, but stressed that the EU needed
reform.
"Europe is our home, the home of our children and
grandchildren," Renzi told a news conference at the premier's
office in Rome.
"We say this more than ever, convinced that the home needs
renovating, perhaps freshened up, but it's our home of
tomorrow".
Renzi said Friday that he respected Britain's vote to
leave the EU, adding that the bloc now had to move on.
"The British people have chosen," he said. "We respect the
decision. Now the page turns".
He also pledged that the vote will not cause instability
across the continent.
"I'm here to say that Italy will do its bit the path
ahead," he said.
"The government and the EU institutions are in the
condition to guarantee financial stability and consumer security
with every means".
Renzi said that Italy can act as a pillar of solidity as
the European Union tries to get to grips with Britain's exit.
"Italy is solid again," Renzi said.
"Our country has the duty to offer this solidity to the
other European partners and we are committed to doing this from
tomorrow".
Renzi confirmed that he will meet French President
Francois Hollande and German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin
on Monday to discuss the implications.
"Today is an unprecedented day, not an easy day. But
Europe has shown over its history that it is stronger than any
and every difficulty".
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