Italian support for N.Z. indicated

Press, Volume CXI, Issue 32587, 22 April 1971, Page 2

Italian support for N.Z. indicated

(N.Z.P.A. political correspondent)

WELLINGTON, April 21.

Evidence that New Zealand has a good ally inside the sixmember Common Market was provided today during a press briefing by the Deputy Director-General of the Italian Foreign Ministry (Mr Cesidio Guazzaroni).

Although he asked not to be quoted, it was clear from Mr Guazzaroni’s remarks that the Italian Government has a particularly favourable attitude towards New Zealand’s case for special arrangements in an enlarged E.E.C.

It was also obvious that the Italian concern goes beyond a mere five-year transitional period for continued access of New Zealand exports to the British market The Italians appear to favour an undertaking, from an enlarged Council of Ministers, to review New Zealand’s case before the transitional period ends. Mr Guazzaroni is the chief official in the Italian delegation to the present Common Market negotiations. He has

been involved in E.E.G affairs since 1957. He is visiting New Zealand at the invitation of the Government to gain a firsthand understanding of New Zealand’s case for special treatment Today he had discussions with the Acting Prime Minister and Ministei of Overseas Trade (Mr Marshall) and tomorrow he will hold talks with officials and the producer boards. Mr Guazzaroni, once he was assured that he would not be quoted, was quite forthcoming.

The Italian Government’s attitude to New Zealand is the result of political and economic considerations. It is aware of the benefit to the E.E.C. to maintain New Zealand’s dairy production as the most competitive in the world. And it sees New Zealand’s dairy industry as being of benefit to an enlarged Community.

The Italians are also said to be inspired by political considerations because they feel it is in Europe’s interests to maintain a special relationship with New Zealand. Mr Guazzaroni, 'n fact, mentioned the booklet "Britain, New Zealand and the E.E.C.” in which Mr Marshall, in an introduction, set out reasons why New Zealand could partner an outward looking Europe. Mr Guazzaroni is confident that the Community will be enlarged. The political will was there from all sides and this time agreement just had to be reached, he said.

May would be the most important month in all the negotiations, and Mr Guazzaroni hoped that July would see a successful conclusion. Mr Guazzaroni will leave for home on Friday, and will be back in the heart ot E.E.C. business next week.,