The European Commission urged the new Italian government to stick to reform plans as it cleared the way on Tuesday for the payment of an additional 21 billion euros ($20.2 billion) in post-COVID recovery funds, APA reports citing Reuters.
The Commission said Italy had met a series of 45 landmarks and targets in reform of areas such as public employment, procurement, tax administration, teaching and healthcare to qualify for another part of a 192 billion euro programme.
"So congratulations, Italia, and keep up the good work! The Commission stands by you on your way to recovery," European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said in a statement.
A right-wing alliance led by Giorgia Meloni won the Italian national election on Sunday, raising concerns in Brussels that relations with the new government would be more difficult than under Prime Minister Mario Draghi.
Economy Commissioner Paolo Gentiloni said the funding offered a unique chance to transform the Italian economy.
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