Franko Frattini Italian Foreign Minister Country: Italy

1. Biography of Franco Frattini
2. Early Career and Ministerial Position
3. Appointment to the European Commission
4. Personal Life and Interests

Biography of Franco Frattini

Franco Frattini was born in Rome in 1957. He pursued a career in law, obtaining his bachelor's degree in law at the age of 22 and becoming a prosecutor in Rome at 24.

Early Career and Ministerial Position

Frattini's political career began when he was appointed to his first ministerial post at the age of 37. He became known as the "guardian angel" of Silvio Berlusconi, providing invaluable services to the Prime Minister. Frattini continued to support Berlusconi even when he was urgently asked to join the European Commission and assume the vacant position of Commissioner for Justice.

Appointment to the European Commission

Frattini's appointment resolved a crisis that had prevented the new composition of the European Commission from starting its work. Another Italian candidate, Rocco Buttiglione, had previously been considered for the position but was not supported by the European Parliament due to his intolerant views on homosexuality, which he expressed during his speech to the deputies.

Personal Life and Interests

Frattini, a lawyer by profession, is fluent in English and French. He is renowned for his impeccable manners and has a variety of interests, including mountaineering, skiing, sailing, and scuba diving. He enjoys fine cuisine and music. Frattini is divorced and has a 12-year-old daughter named Carlotta.