asures that do not distort the market and includes consideration of the idea that some of Defence investments could be excluded from the thresholds of the Stability and Growth Pact. Transatlantic relations will be infused with new energy due to a closer understanding between European defence and NATO, overcoming the influences that still lead to a preference for bilateral relations over multilateral ones. 59. National interests, however, are not confined to Europe, which has mainly a transformation economy. Much of the possibility for a national development depends on the ability to attract foreign investment and international trade. We are reliant on international trade for many primary natural resources without which the possibility of sustaining national and economic development would be severely compromised. 60. Our economic interests, our particularly rich and complex history and our geopolitical position provide other responsibilities and opportunities. Italy is a member of several international organizations and has developed multiple and important bonds of friendship and cooperation with many countries. Lastly, Italy, as an open society, influences and is also influenced by global events and trends. 61. Ensuring the defence of the homeland, maritime and air space, our freedom, the safety of our citizens and the future well-being of our country are not neglected. But this is dependent on widespread global stability, on the existence of an international system that safeguards respect for the freedom and fundamental rights of people and on global economic development. These conditions cannot be separated from the willingness and the national capacity to know how to fit into this system with credibility and authority, and from actively participating in the preservation and strengthening of the system. This network of international, political, economic, technological and cultural relations is part of the Nation’s heritage and it cannot be taken for granted, but rather must be constantly reinforced with long-term choices, which are consistent over time. 62. Our ability and willingness to invest in international security, however, must take into account the real overall possibilities of the nation, the economic and financial - 35 -