Focusing on the close ties between the two traditional pillars of Italy’s foreign policy, Atlanticism and Europeanism, and the country’s attitude towards the Mediterranean, this paper provides an assessment of the historical evolution and the latest developments in Italy’s Mediterranean policy, with particular reference to its main chapters: the “special relationship” with Libya, the approach to the Middle Eastern question, and the attitude towards Turkey and the Islamic Republic of Iran. After checking whether and to what extent these developments diverge from the traditional orientation of Italy’s Mediterranean policy, the paper shows how this policy has been marred by a few serious flaws that, if not overcome, could undermine Italy’s role in the Mediterranean region and further reduce its already declining international influence and credibility. The paper concludes with some policy recommendations.
Italy's Mediterranean Policy From a Transatlantic Perspective
CORALLUZZO, Valter Maria
2011
Abstract
Focusing on the close ties between the two traditional pillars of Italy’s foreign policy, Atlanticism and Europeanism, and the country’s attitude towards the Mediterranean, this paper provides an assessment of the historical evolution and the latest developments in Italy’s Mediterranean policy, with particular reference to its main chapters: the “special relationship” with Libya, the approach to the Middle Eastern question, and the attitude towards Turkey and the Islamic Republic of Iran. After checking whether and to what extent these developments diverge from the traditional orientation of Italy’s Mediterranean policy, the paper shows how this policy has been marred by a few serious flaws that, if not overcome, could undermine Italy’s role in the Mediterranean region and further reduce its already declining international influence and credibility. The paper concludes with some policy recommendations.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
