“The EU is now with you”, the president apologises to Italy: Many countries thought only of their own problems

“Europe is mobilised alongside Italy, but it must be acknowledged that in the early days of the crisis, in the face of the need for a joint response, many countries have thought only about their problems at home”. Thus writes European Commission President Ursula von der Leyeen in an open letter to Italians, reflecting on recent interventions.

The past “She notes it was a harmful behavior that could have been avoided, but now Europe has changed its rhythm”.

In a letter published by “La Repubblica”, Von Der Leeyen underscores that Italy has been hit by the more than any other bloc country.

“We are witnesses to unimaginable. Thousands have been robbed by the love of their loved ones. Doctors in tears in hospital departments, with their faces all over their hands. A whole country of ʹ and almost a whole continent closed for quarantine” were words written by the EC president.

For the chief of the EU Commission, Italy has become the greatest source of inspiration for all. Italian “Myths, medical personnel and volunteers have responded to the government's call to help the worst hit areas”, notes Von Der Leyen as he praised the contribution of the fashion industry that cut the usual effort to produce protective and disinfectant masks for hands.

“Concerts on balcony” have inspired the EU leader, who writes that he filled empty roads by heating the hearts of millions. Von Der Leyen ensures that the EU has changed and will do everything it can to ensure a co-ordinated response to this common problem as soon as possible.

It also suggests it has proposed that every cent of the annual European Union budget be used to help member states cope with this crisis.