Berlusconi candidate for EP elections, wants to unite Europe

Berlusconi spoke at the convention of his right-wing centre, the Italian Force, whose popularity has fallen in recent years, as voters address rightist parties with anti-imigrating and Eurosceptic messages, such as the League Party.

The former prime minister said he wants Europe to be “translated into the fathers' project of founders who wanted more united Europe, Europe with a diplomacy and a defence policy”.

Berlusconi was banned from carrying out public office for nearly five years on charges of abuse of taxes. The court last year, citing his good conduct, ruled that he could compete again.