Schlein and Conte signal unity while differences remain in Italy’s centre-left

Italy’s centre-left leaders met at an event in Rome as they explored how to work together against Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government.

Democratic Party leader Elly Schlein rejected the idea that the alliance needs a more moderate candidate, saying she does not believe winning requires moving toward the political centre.

Five Star Movement leader Giuseppe Conte said he would accept the outcome of any primaries and would not try to break up the alliance if he lost.

Left Alliance leaders Nicola Fratoianni and Angelo Bonelli also took part, alongside Riccardo Magi.

The parties still disagree, including over Ukraine, where Conte criticised the military approach while Schlein reaffirmed support for Kyiv.

Despite those differences and signs of distance between Schlein and Conte, the leaders presented a united front and Conte said they could agree on a programme within two weeks.

The next step discussed was cooperation on a shared programme and, if no other solution is found, holding primaries to choose a candidate.