(Angus Reid Global Monitor) - Many adults in Italy have a clear idea of the way their country should deal with international affairs, according to a poll by SWG. 48 per cent of respondents believe Italy should be closer to the European Union (EU) in its foreign policy.

In addition, 17 per cent of respondents want closer ties with the United States, while 33 per cent opt for a more autonomous foreign policy, which would respect both the EU and the U.S.

Italian voters renewed the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate in April 2006. The Union (Unione) of centre-left parties, led by Romano Prodi, secured 348 seats in the lower house and 158 seats in the upper house. The victory put an end to the government of the centre-right House of Freedom (Casa), headed by Silvio Berlusconi.

In May 2006, Prodi was formally appointed as prime minister. The Union leader had previously served as head of government from May 1996 to October 1998.

Earlier this month, Italian journalist Daniele Mastrogiacomo—who had been kidnapped in Afghanistan—was released after the Afghan government agreed to free five Taliban prisoners, as part of a negotiation initiated by Italy.

Italian defence undersecretary Lorenzo Forcieri rejected criticism of the deal saying, "The opposition provided carte blanche to do everything possible, so complaining now is too easy." U.S. State Department spokesman Sean McCormack disapproved of the transaction, saying, "Our views are very clear: We don't negotiate with terrorists; we don't advise others to do so as well."

Polling Data

When it comes to foreign policy, what should Italy's position be?

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