Congressman Pascrell Welcomes Italy's Prime Minister Mario Monti To Capitol Hill

Pascrell, co-chair of Italian-American Congressional Delegation, hosts roundtable discussion on Italy's role in building a stronger European economy. U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ) today welcomed Italy's Prime Minister Mario Monti and other Italian government dignitaries to Capitol Hill for a roundtable discussion. Among the topics discussed were the state of Italian-American relations and the role of Italy in the revitalization of Europe's economy.

"Prime Minister Monti was forthcoming as we talked about Italy's efforts to recover from the economic crisis that has taken hold of so many European nations. We had a private discussion about his efforts to have Italy's finances straightened out. It's an ambitious plan and I support what he's trying to do. Clearly, it is a new day for Italy under the steady leadership of its new Prime Minister," said Pascrell, whose grandparents immigrated to the United States from Italy. "Italy is Europe's third largest economy. Prime Minister Monti has the background and the financial acumen to develop Italy's economic strength. He also has the benefit of a strong relationship with the United States. The Prime Minister expressed his love for the American people. Our alliance with Italy is stronger than ever before. Our two nations share a blended heritage that has benefitted people throughout the world. I look forward to doing everything I can to help maintain the beautiful friendship between Italy and America."

Also present at the roundtable discussion were:

• Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Giulio Maria Terzi (Former Ambassador to the U.S.)
• Ambassador Claudio Bisogniero, Ambassador of Italy to the United States of America
• Ambassador Pasquale Terracciano, Diplomatic Advisor to the Prime Minister
• Minister Plenipotentiary Gianlorenzo Cornado, Chief of Staff to the Minister of Foreign Affairs
• Stefano Grassi, Office of the Prime Minister
• Sr. Counselor Fabrizio Bucci, Embassy of Italy

House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), Congressman Pat Tiberi (R-OH), Senator Mike Enzi (R-WY) and Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT) also participated in the discussion.