Gentiloni says govt is 'interlocutor' with EU (2)

(ANSA) - Brussels, January 18 - Foreign Minister Paolo Gentiloni replied Monday to EU sources' complaints of a lack of "interlocutor" in Rome that "we have a continuous dialogue with the institutions, we have a foreign minister, interior, economy, Italy has a government in the fullness of its powers". EU sources told ANSA there is concern at the highest EU levels over a lack of communication channels with Rome. Communication issues can turn into political problems, the sources said. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker was and is Premier Matteo Renzi's friend and Italy's best ally, the sources said.
    Juncker and Renzi traded barbs Friday over economic flexibility clauses and migrants. Juncker had lost his patience, the sources said.