“Grazie presidente!” From the moment Mattarella was welcomed with military honours by the Grand Duke in front of the palace, it was clear this was no ordinary visit. At 83, the Sicilian politician continues to enjoy soaring popularity in his homeland.
Tuesday evening featured initial talks with the Grand Duke and a gala dinner at the palace. On Wednesday, political engagements dominated the agenda, including a meeting in the Chamber of Deputies, where foreign heads of state are seldom received.
“The Chamber is where democracy thrives. And that is an important symbol. What we talk about mostly concerns the bigger international issues and positions to explain. Time was limited, as is usual for these kinds of visits”, elaborates Chamber president Claude Wiseler.
Mattarella entered politics under tragic circumstances. In 1980, his brother, then mayor of Palermo, was shot dead by the Mafia – a turning point that led Mattarella to commit himself to justice and the rule of law.
Claude Wiseler adds that his focus on justice and fair politics is clearly readable in the messages he spreads. “The fundamental values – democracy, the rule of law and respect for it – are values we share fully with him”.
Prime Minister Luc Frieden echoed these sentiments on Wednesday morning. The prime minister also raised awareness, noting that Italy remains a historic partner of Luxembourg. The pair discussed Europe among other topics, with Frieden underlining the importance of upholding democratic values.
“His life story explains why Europe must be united. Back then, they had to fight internally against the forces that wanted to destroy Italy. His brother even lost his life in the process,” said the Frieden. “But what also impresses me is that President Mattarella, at over 80 years old, has decided to continue committing himself to his country. So that the fundamentals – the core values that hold a country together – continue to live on in his country. And he brings those values beyond its borders as well. And for that reason, I think he can be an inspiration for many other political leaders in the world.”
The state visit concluded with a reception attended by the Grand Duke and representatives of Luxembourg’s Italian community.
