United States Ambassador to
Rome John Phillips said Tuesday that "it would be a step back
for foreign investment in Italy" if the No vote won in the
autumn referendum on the government's overhaul of the country's
political machinery.
The reform amends the Constitution and, among other
things, turns the Senate into a leaner assembly of local
government representatives with limited powers to save money and
make passing legislation easier.
Speaking at the Istituto di Studi Americani in Rome,
Phillips said that, while "the referendum is an Italian
decision", the country must also "guarantee political
stability".
He continued: "63 governments in 63 years do not give
guarantees. (The reform vote) offers hope of government
stability to attract investors".
Premier Matteo Renzi has said he will quit if he loses the
referendum.
Almost all of Italy's opposition groups are campaigning
for a No vote.
Phillips also said that United States President Barack
Obama has great respect for Renzi.
"Renzi has done an important job and is held in very high
esteem by Obama, who appreciates his leadership," Phillips said.
On Monday it was announced that Obama will lay on a State
dinner for Renzi at the White House on October 18.
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