Germany, Italy to work on mutual plan to boost ties

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi presented a joint plan of action for cementing the relationship between the two nations at a press conference in Rome on Monday, reported dpa.

Scholz said the two leaders' ultimate goal was to foster closer cooperation between the two governments, and described the step as "a big step forward."

The plan of action is in the same vein as the recently signed Quirinal Treaty between Italy and France - a treaty of friendship aiming to boost the two countries' cooperation on issues such as the economy, security and migration policy.

Draghi explained that the process was still at an early stage: "This wasn't even mentioned until three days ago." The two leaders began by identifying issues on which both countries could cooperate.

Scholz was received with military honours at Draghi's official residence, the Palazzo Chigi, for his inaugural visit to Italy as chancellor. Afterwards, the chancellor and the Italian premier had one-on-one talks.

Draghi, who is not a member of any political party, has been in power since mid-February. His Cabinet is supported by the overwhelming majority of the Italian parliament.