ROME -- The new British prime minister Theresa May held talks with counterpart Matteo Renzi on Wednesday about the future of the EU following Brexit. The meeting saw discussion on the challenges posed by terrorism and migration, as well as the fate of expats in Italy and the UK, for whom "there will be no repercussions" unless British citizens living in Italy “do not also have their rights guaranteed.” 

 Renzi begun the meeting by outlining how Britain’s exit from the European Union gave the two countries “an opportunity to work together to clarify the future of the United Kingdom” and that Italy “would give as much support as possible during what will be a difficult journey,” before admitting the vote was a “sad” one. 

 The Italian prime minister then emphasised the need for a “clear timeline that will lend certainty to everything and make clear which direction to proceed in,” while stating that the two countries must “take the opportunity to redefine the common European ideal. As the Romans once said, ‘ex malo bonum’.”

 He then went on to state the need for the two countries to provide a comprehensive solution to the migration crisis.

 As far as trade was concerned, Theresa May stated how she wanted to “bring commercial trade to the forefront,” highlighting that “Italy is the eighth largest trading nation in the world.”

 The British premier then voiced her continued concern for security: “The attitude of EU member states to matters relating to security are fundamental to us. We must all confront the threat of terrorism together.” Renzi added that he was “of the same opinion as Theresa,” and that “we will continue to work against terrorist threats as one.”

 As far as the nature of the UK's commercial dealings following Brexit were concerned, Theresa May said she was "open-minded," but advocated for "a model tailor-made for the UK and the EU" rather than a "pre-prepared one."