ROME-- Celebrations took place on Wednesday to mark the 60^th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Rome, which has guaranteed economic stability across the continent since 1957.

 The commemoration took place at the Chamber of Deputies, in Palazzo Montecitorio. Various MPs, senators and MEPs joined the President, Sergio Mattarella, and the Prime Minister, Paolo Gentiloni in Rome. However, the MPs from the Lega Nord were absent, choosing instead to protest outside.

 Given the current political climate, the celebrations were bitter sweet, with those present being forced to acknowledge divisive political opinions that go against the core European values. In recognition of this climate, Matarella highlighted the importance of seeing the bigger picture, and making difficult decisions over the coming years to safeguard Europe’s future, especially for the sake of the younger generation.

 In response to the question of Brexit, the head of state emphasised the importance of reviewing the European Union as it currently stands, so as to avoid the departure of other important member states, and preserve the union in the long run. Laura Boldrini, President of the Chamber of deputies supported this, declaring that ‘the dissolution of the European Union would condemn the continent to irrelevance. The security of our citizens is achieved by strengthening the union, not breaking it up.’

 Looking forward, Matarella called upon citizens of both Italy and Europe to come together and toil to keep European values alive over the next 60 years. He championed this solidarity over “impossible steps backwards to a past that no longer exists”, and “walls which create scapegoats without solving any problems”.

 The celebrations highlighted the need for collaboration and courage in the face of the current political upheaval.