Europe at WAR: Italy and France feud - why is Macron in RAGE over Rome ambassador?
ITALY and France are embroiled in their biggest diplomatic row since World War II, with France recalling its ambassador on Thursday. But why?
EU politicians blast ‘isolated’ Italy as spat with Macron continues
Relations between the two countries - both founding members of the EU - have been deteriorating since Italy's populist Five Star Movement and right-wing League party formed a coalition government in June 2018. The two governments have clashed over a range of issues. The latest row began just last week.
On Tuesday, Italian Deputy Prime Minister Luigi Di Maio, leader of the Five Star Movement, met with leaders of the French anti-government "gilets jaunes" (yellow vest) protests.
He posted a picture of himself on Twitter with yellow-vest leader Christophe Chalençon and members of a yellow-vest list who are standing in elections to the European Parliament in May.
The move enraged France, which warned Mr Di Maio not to interfere in the country’s politics.
Then on Thursday, France recalled its ambassador to Italy for talks, saying the situation was "unprecedented" since the end of World War Two.
The French foreign ministry said: “For several months France has been the subject of repeated accusations, unfounded attacks and outlandish claims.
“The most recent interferences constitute an additional and unacceptable provocation.
“They violate the respect that is owed to democratic choices made by a nation which is a friend and an ally.
“To disagree is one thing, to exploit a relationship for electoral aims is another.”
Italy's fellow Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini later said he would be happy to hold talks with President Emmanuel Macron.
But to “reset” relations he said France had to address “fundamental” issues.
By this, he’s referring to a number of issues.
Italy wants Paris to hand over left-wing militants wanted by Italy and to stop returning migrants that cross into French territory.
He also complained of lengthy French border checks causing traffic jams at the frontier.
Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte, speaking on a visit to Beirut, said he hoped the situation could be "cleared up immediately".
"Italy and France's relationship is rooted in history and cannot be called into question by events,” he said.
It’s no secret that neither of Italy’s leaders are fans of Mr Macron.
Last month, after France recovered from the chaotic Yellow Vest protests, Mr Salvini launched a personal attack, saying he hoped he French people would soon be able to "free themselves of a terrible president".