The nomination of Italy's new European Commissioner will be the focus of talks in Rome on Friday between premier Giuseppe Conte and European Commission president-elect Ursula von der Leyen and the government is seeking a "high-profile" portfolio, Conte said.
"The nomination of the Italian commissioner is the focus of our discussions and we want a high-profile portfolio," Conte told reporters ahead of his talks with von der Leyen.
"We believe this is in line with the responsibilities that Italy wants to take on and with its ambitions," Conte went on.
The government was willing to agree on a candidate whose "competence, ability and availability" best suited them to the role, he added.
"This is in Italy's best interests and those of the whole of Europe," Conte stated.
