Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni announced on Wednesday that the government is set to approve a framework for reintroducing nuclear power in Italy by this summer. This move marks a significant shift as the country had moved away from nuclear energy following a referendum in the aftermath of the Chernobyl disaster nearly four decades ago. The plan involves utilizing the latest generation of small reactors developed by the private sector, with an enabling law expected to facilitate this transition. Meloni emphasized that this initiative aims to enhance Italy’s energy autonomy and reduce costs, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
During her address in the Senate at the Premier Time session, Meloni extended an invitation to the opposition, expressing her willingness to collaborate on national priorities. These include addressing issues related to jobs, the healthcare system, birth rates, and the development of a new electoral law. However, the opposition has already dismissed this overture. Meloni reiterated her administration’s commitment to prioritizing wages, business incentives, and boosting birth rates. She also highlighted the positive trend under her leadership, with an increase in stable employment and a decrease in precarious job situations, stressing that young Italians should not need to act courageously to remain in the country amidst a growing brain drain.
Moreover, Meloni pointed out the necessity of raising Italian wages by enhancing collective bargaining mechanisms. She noted that by the end of March, the government had successfully utilized 76% of the funds allocated by the European Union for the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP), underscoring the government’s efficiency in managing these resources.
In a related development, Meloni found herself at odds with Matteo Renzi, leader of the centrist Italia Viva party and a former premier, over the government’s housing plan. This clash underscores ongoing political tensions as the country navigates significant policy shifts under the current administration.