ROME (AP) — The Italian and French leaders agree on the importance of budgetary discipline, but say there is an urgent need to promote economic growth.
The two leaders met Thursday as Italy saw its borrowing costs on its public debt rise to worrying levels.
Italian Premier Mario Monti says the leaders share common approaches to the crisis, including the need to implement policies to promote growth. While fiscal discipline is necessary, Monti said, but it does not create jobs.
They also exchanged ideas on launching eurobonds, jointly issued bonds that would spread debt risk.
Germany opposes the bonds out of concern they will lead to fiscal laxity.