The European Commission welcomed the new fiscal measures announced Tuesday by the Italian government which “confirm the determination of the Italian authorities to meet the agreed targets of deficit and debt reduction,” it said in an e-mailed statement Tuesday.

“The confirmation of the decision to introduce in the Constitution the principle of a balanced budget and the abolition of provinces are decisive improvements in the institutional framework of Italy and contribute to ensure budgetary discipline on a permanent basis,” the statement said. “The Commission calls on swift adoption of the adjustment package in a spirit of national cohesion and solidarity,” the statement also said.