‘New possibilities’ emerge over new Italian government

Italy’s premier-designate Carlo Cottarelli has said “new possibilities” have emerged to form a government based on the outcome of the March 4 elections.

Efforts by two populist parties to create a coalition government failed over the weekend after President Sergio Mattarella vetoed the economy minister proposed by the 5-Star Movement and League.

Mr Mattarella then turned to Mr Cottarelli to form a neutral government of technocrats to lead Italy until early elections.

However, on Wednesday, Mr Cottarelli said in a statement that “new possibilities for the birth of a political government have emerged” during his consultations.

The statement added: “This circumstance, also considering market tensions, has compelled him to wait for further developments.”