Italy ratifies EU constitution

The Italian senate has ratified the European Union constitution, giving final approval to the treaty meant to bolster the 25 nation bloc’s role on the world stage and streamline its decision making process.

The senate approved the treaty’s ratification with a 217-16 vote in Rome last night. The lower house of parliament had already given its green light in January.

The constitution, which was signed in a solemn ceremony in Rome in October, foresees the creation of a president and a foreign minister for the EU. Before it comes into effect in 2007, all 25 members must ratify it by parliamentary vote or referendum.

Opinion polls suggest that the French will vote against the constitution in a referendum next month.