Key issues discussed include trade tariffs, immigration, and rising terrorist threats in Europe.
The leader of Italy's League party, Matteo Salvini, inaugurated the party's congress at the Fortezza da Basso in Florence, which is set to continue through Sunday.
In his opening remarks, Salvini emphasized the role of the League in the current government, stating, 'The League is the government, as you will see in the messages today and tomorrow.
Conte and Schlein should accept that the League is the guarantee for a long-lasting government and is the glue that holds it together.'
The congress also featured a virtual address from
Elon Musk, CEO of
Tesla and SpaceX.
During his remarks, Musk mentioned the importance of dialogue regarding tariffs imposed by former U.S. President
Donald Trump, suggesting, 'It's better to negotiate with the U.S. than to engage in warfare.' He noted the need to protect savings, jobs, and high-quality Italian products.
Salvini criticized certain EU policies, calling for changes he deemed 'suicidal' and reiterated the party's opposition to military and trade wars, advocating for a different future that moves away from conflict.
Musk's participation was marked by his outspoken views on freedom of expression, where he referred to restrictions as having fascist implications and emphasized the need for ideas to prevail based on argumentation.
He reiterated concerns about bureaucracy and government efficiency, accusing critics of misrepresenting his initiatives aimed at reducing unnecessary expenditures.
Addressing immigration, Musk described the current global situation as 'insane,' arguing that mass immigration could fundamentally alter a country.
He raised alarms about terrorism in Europe, predicting that the continent would experience significant violence, stating, 'We are witnessing a huge increase in the number of attacks in Italy and Europe in general… This will lead to mass killings in Europe.'
On the topic of international trade, Musk expressed hopes for a future with zero tariffs between the U.S. and Europe, advocating for a comprehensive free trade area.
Responding to a question from Salvini regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Musk criticized those who wish for the war to continue indefinitely, asserting, 'It is inhumane to send people to die every day without any plan to stop the war.'
Salvini concluded the opening session with a call for active participation and constructive dialogue among party members, highlighting that the League aims to protect citizens' interests, including savings, homes, jobs, and the future of the next generations.
Throughout the event, various party officials, including regional secretaries and ministers, are expected to voice their positions, and proposed amendments to the party's statutes will be voted on.
The congress will also feature discussions on key issues such as autonomy, immigration, and justice.
The congress is marked by significant participation, reflecting the League's unified stance around Salvini, who maintains dual roles as both the departing and incoming secretary.
The event aims to establish a clear line on engagements with the European Union and the United States, signaling the party’s ongoing role in Italian politics.
On Sunday, Emanuele Orsini, the first president of Confindustria to address a League congress, is scheduled to participate.