Ahern congratulates new Italian premier

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern tonight congratulated Italian political leader Romano Prodi, who was finally confirmed as the winner of the country’s general election.

Italy’s supreme court today ended days of political stalemate when it validated a narrow victory for Mr Prodi over Silvio Berlusconi in the April 9-10 vote.

However a new government is unlikely to be appointed before the second half of May as president Carlo Azeglio Ciampi is stepping down on May 18.

Congratulating Mr Prodi, Mr Ahern said they worked closely together during Ireland’s EU presidency in the first half of 2004.

“During my time as Taoiseach, I have had the pleasure of working with Romano both during his previous period as Italian Prime Minister and from 1999 to 2004, when he presided over the European Commission.

“I particularly recall his help and wise counsel during Ireland’s Presidency of the European Union, when we collaborated closely together.

“Ireland and Italy enjoy very warm bilateral relations, and I am writing to the prime minister-elect to say how much I look forward to working with him again.

“I am sure the European Union as a whole will also benefit from his considerable experience as we face the many challenges ahead.”

Mr Ahern also thanked Mr Berlusconi – who had refused to admit defeat to Mr Prodi – for his support and friendship over the past five years.

“He was a constructive and helpful colleague in Europe, and I wish him well in the future.”