(ANSA) – MILAN, 4 FEB – "I take note of the constructive and positive sentiments expressed after 31 January, which I am sure exist on both sides. But it would be less than intellectually honest of me not to say that, with Brexit, we find ourselves facing an absolutely unknown territory – a terra incognita. We do not know what will happen at the end of the year, unless tensions arise." This was stated by the Undersecretary for Foreign Affairs, Ivan Scalfarotto, speaking at Assolombarda during the conference "Brexit done. The future of Italy-UK trade relations". Scalfarotto did not conceal the difficulties in negotiating a new agreement between the EU and the UK, made all the greater by the limited time available. "The agreement with Canada took seven years to conclude and is still awaiting ratification by several countries, including Italy, in whose public opinion there is no complete consensus on whether or not it should be ratified, even though I am convinced it is an excellent instrument. There will be a complex negotiation, above all because time is very short. I am certain," the Undersecretary for Foreign Affairs maintained, "that we will approach the negotiation with the utmost goodwill and openness, but I wonder what obstacles will arise. And reaching agreement on standards may not be easy. Great Britain is our fifth-largest export market, and we will find ourselves facing a complicated situation that is significant for our economy," he said, reiterating that it is "fair to say that the unpredictability of the scenario we have faced so far is set to continue. It will take a great deal of patience, work and listening to economic operators, but it will be an extremely demanding task for the EU. Of course, the goodwill and the desire to build the best possible partnership are there: it will be a fascinating exercise." In any case, Scalfarotto pointed out, "Brexit is a monumental protectionist move. It is a market that tends to close in on itself. Italy is a country that lives on trade and, thanks to its exports, has survived the crisis of recent years. If, as a result of Brexit, our exports become subject to barriers of any kind – from certifications to queues at the border – it will be a problem for our companies. The agreement I hope will be reached between the EU and the United Kingdom must ensure that trade is as unencumbered as possible," the Undersecretary for Foreign Affairs concluded. (ANSA). NI 04-FEB-20 15:55
Brexit: Graham, the UK will not engage in unfair competition. Consul in Milan tells entrepreneurs of a solid relationship with Italy. (ANSA) – MILAN, 4 FEB – "Our goal is to have a trade agreement similar to those the EU has already concluded with other countries, such as Canada. We are well aware that there could be consequences, but as always the British Government will do everything possible to ensure that companies in Italy and Great Britain are ready to face any changes before the end of this year." This was stated by Catriona Graham, Consul General of the United Kingdom in Milan, at the conference "Brexit done. The future of Italy-UK trade relations", attended at the Assolombarda headquarters by the Undersecretary for Foreign Affairs, Ivan Scalfarotto. "Everything," Graham assured, "will take place without unfair competition practices or a race to the bottom: we will guarantee the highest quality standards and consumer protection. In the coming years, the UK's relationship with Italy will be strengthened. We are not closing in on ourselves; rather, we want to play an increasingly leading role in a changing world, and Italy is a key partner for us," Graham concluded. (ANSA). NI 04-FEB-20 15:52
