In the face of global challenges, the Rome-Paris axis could become the true engine of a renewed European Union
A historic bond to be transformed into a strategic alliance
Italy and France are not just two major European nations. They are founding hearts of the European Union, pillars of a community that needs shared vision and cohesion now more than ever. On the occasion of the bilateral meeting in Rome between President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Paolo Longobardi, honorary president of Unimpresa, issued a clear message: it’s time to turn the relationship between Rome and Paris into a lasting strategic alliance.
Over the years, this relationship has suffered from mistrust and diplomatic fluctuations. But in a world shaped by geopolitical tensions, energy crises, and digital transitions, there is no longer room for division. A new pact between founding states is essential.
A shared and complementary economic fabric
Economically, Italy and France already enjoy a robust partnership. France is Italy’s second largest trading partner, while Italy is France’s third largest customer and second largest supplier. This connection is not limited to large industrial groups: it is built on the daily work of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that drive innovation and employment on both sides of the Alps.
Yet much remains untapped. There’s a pressing need to harmonize tax and labor regulations across Europe to prevent internal competition. Access to EU funds must also be streamlined, especially for Southern Italian SMEs that could find fertile ground for cooperation in French districts.
Relaunching the Quirinal Treaty
A key point raised by Longobardi is the Quirinal Treaty, signed in 2021 to strengthen structured cooperation between Italy and France. But its full potential is still far from realized.
There’s room to grow in areas like innovation, training, and industrial competitiveness. With political momentum, the treaty can serve as a real lever to foster shared growth and solidify Europe’s global stance.
A responsibility to European citizens
The Italy-France partnership should not be limited to diplomatic declarations. It must become a strategic political choice, a commitment to citizens who expect unity, security, and progress from Europe.
In a multipolar world, single voices risk fading into silence. But together, Italy and France can lead a more just, strong and citizen-centered European project.
10 FAQs about the Italy-France strategic alliance
1. What is the trade value between Italy and France?
France is Italy’s second largest trading partner with strong bilateral investment flows.
2. What does the Quirinal Treaty establish?
It sets a framework for cooperation on defense, culture, innovation, economy and justice.
3. Why is the Rome-Paris relationship strategic?
A strong alliance between two founding EU nations stabilizes and empowers the entire Union.
4. Which sectors are most involved?
Manufacturing, energy, automotive, luxury, agrifood and technological innovation.
5. What does Unimpresa propose to both governments?
Tax and labor harmonization, and simplified access to EU funding for SMEs.
6. What role do SMEs play in this alliance?
They benefit from easier exports, partnerships, and integration into broader European supply chains.
7. What are the risks without a solid alliance?
Europe may become fragmented and irrelevant in global power balances.
8. What do the two countries share in vision?
A desire for a more sovereign, united and industrially competitive Europe.
9. How can businesses benefit?
Through partnerships, funding access, and cooperative innovation programs.
10. What is the role of economic diplomacy here?
To turn political cooperation into tangible growth opportunities for real businesses.
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