Renzi Dodges Andorra-EU Integration Questions at Pyrenees Meeting

Former Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi sidestepped questions on Friday about Andorra's association agreement with the European Union or whether deeper integration into the bloc would benefit the Principality.

Speaking at the 37th Pyrenees Business Meeting in La Seu d'Urgell, Renzi, now a senator, described the issue as a complex, historic matter best handled by Andorran institutions. "I'm out of politics today, so I don't talk about a single dossier," he said when asked about the negotiations between Andorra and Brussels. Pressed on whether closer European ties would be positive for Andorra, he replied, "I don't give suggestions to this country's leaders."

Renzi did, however, praise the EU's willingness to engage. "I think it's absolutely important for the European Union to be open to discussing," he stated, emphasizing the value of dialogue as Andorra draws nearer to EU institutions.

In his wider remarks, Renzi called for Europe to reclaim global influence amid geopolitical tensions, economic competition, and shifting power balances. He urged less bureaucracy and more political action. "Europe must play a relevant role in the world again," he told attendees.

The former leader stressed greater coordination among EU nations to tackle upcoming challenges and reshape the bloc. "We must work together to create a different Europe from today's," he said. He highlighted the critical role of elections in southern Europe, noting that political developments in Spain, Italy, Greece, and France would prove "very crucial" for Europe's future direction.