Italy has persistent debt challenge - EU (2)

(ANSA) - Brussels, November 15 - A European Commission spokesperson said Wednesday that Italy must act on bringing down its massive public debt. "Italy is seeing its recovery strengthen, but it is faced with persistent challenges in the light of its high debt level," the spokesperson said when asked about the apparent differences in the positions on Italy of Economic Affairs Commissioner Pierre Moscovici and Commission Vice President Jyrki Katainen. The Commission is pressuring Italy to do more to improve its public finances and is expected to send Rome a letter asking for clarification regarding the 2018 budget law.
    "Yesterday the commissioners had a political discussion about the eurozone countries' budget plans, including Italy's and its respect of the debt rule... but the decisions will be taken next week," the spokesperson said.