Italian-French tensions flare again after French Prime Minister François Bayrou accused Italy of “fiscal dumping,” claiming it penalizes France. Palazzo Chigi responded: “The statements are totally unfounded. The Italian economy is attractive and performs better than others thanks to the stability and credibility of our nation. Italy does not apply unjustified tax advantages under this government, the flat-rate tax on individuals relocating to Italy has even been doubled”. The statement added that Italy has long been “penalized by so-called European tax havens” and called on France to join Italy in the EU against member states practicing systematic tax dumping. The governing majority described Bayrou’s remarks as a “serious and unacceptable attack on Italy, its entrepreneurs, and its workers,” emphasizing that Italy prefers to focus on work rather than polemics. Deborah Bergamini of Forza Italia noted that Bayrou’s claims are unsupported by facts: “We understand the difficult political moment his government is facing, but issues cannot be addressed by raising hostile suggestions against European partners. Italy continues to work for greater European integration. It would be desirable for everyone to show the same commitment”.