On 5 December 2014, the Centre for Political and Foreign Affairs (CPFA) in Paris hosted Enrico Letta, former Prime Minister of Italy, for a high-level discussion moderated by Renaud Girard. The event formed part of CPFA’s continuing engagement with European leaders to reflect on political and economic challenges affecting the continent.

Letta, who served as Italy’s Prime Minister from 2013 to 2014, reflected on the turbulence facing Europe in the aftermath of the financial crisis, the rise of populist movements, and the strains on European integration. He spoke about Italy’s experience of balancing reform, governance, and social cohesion, while also addressing the broader challenges of sustaining European unity in an increasingly unstable international context.

The meeting brought together policymakers and experts for an in-depth exchange on the political and economic future of Europe. Letta’s intervention highlighted both the opportunities and the vulnerabilities facing the European project, underlining the importance of pragmatic leadership and renewed commitment to cooperation.