Unicredit's CEO, Andrea Orcel, emphasized the bank's role as a European champion that Italy can be proud of, expressing a commitment to the country's success. He extended an olive branch to the Italian government, stating that Unicredit's heart beats for Italy. In related developments, Orcel reaffirmed Unicredit's Italian identity amid discussions regarding potential mergers with Banco Bpm and Natixis. The Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance (Mef) is considering a decree to expand its golden power, which could impact these mergers. However, Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti announced that the government will not apply enhanced golden power measures to the Unicredit-Banco Bpm merger, indicating a more conciliatory approach towards Orcel and the bank. Reuters reported that Italy has no plans to strengthen golden power rules specifically for the financial sector.