Italian president Sergio Mattarella visited Germany for a three-day state visit, during which he highlighted the strong relationship between Rome and Berlin and emphasized the need for a stronger and more united EU to address international challenges. He stressed the importance of Germany as a partner in various aspects of co-existence and relations, including within the EU and NATO. Mattarella also warned against the rise of political populism and stated that peace in Ukraine should not equate to submission.
During his visit, Mattarella held talks with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to discuss European issues and visited the United Nations Climate Change Secretariat in Bonn to attend a conference on cooperation between Germany and Italy in the fight against climate change. The presidents of Italy and Germany also visited the site of the Marzabotto massacre, the worst atrocity committed against civilians by the Nazis in Italy, to attend a service marking the 80th anniversary of the event. The massacre, carried out by Waffen SS troops in 1944, resulted in the deaths of at least 770 Italian civilians and remains the deadliest mass shooting in Italy’s history.
Mattarella’s visit to Germany included a speech at the Bellevue Palace in Berlin alongside German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, where he emphasized the importance of preserving and strengthening the friendship between Italy and Germany. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to attend the commemoration of the victims of the Marzabotto massacre with humility and acknowledged the deep wounds left by the crimes of the SS and Wehrmacht in Italy. Steinmeier echoed Mattarella’s sentiments, recognizing the significance of the Marzabotto massacre as one of many crimes committed by German forces in Italy during World War II.
Mattarella’s visit to Germany also involved discussions on ways to end the war in Ukraine, with both presidents emphasizing the importance of upholding the principles of dignity and international law in the pursuit of peace. The leaders highlighted the need to find a resolution to the conflict without compromising on these principles. Mattarella’s visit underscored the shared commitment of Italy and Germany to promoting peace, cooperation, and dialogue both within Europe and on the international stage.
Overall, Sergio Mattarella’s state visit to Germany served to strengthen the bond between Italy and Germany, highlight the importance of European unity, and remember the victims of historical atrocities. The visit included discussions on pressing international issues, such as the conflict in Ukraine and climate change, as well as a somber commemoration of the tragic events of the Marzabotto massacre. Mattarella’s visit underscored the importance of solidarity, remembrance, and collaboration in addressing the challenges facing Europe and the world today.
