The German-Italian relations are close, as there are a number of similarities between the two states. Similarities in historical development (Germany and Italy as "late nations"), the current position of both countries in Central Europe and their membership in the European Union, the extensive trade exchanges as well as the complexity of the contacts (including culture, tourism, sports, social groups, trade unions, and living). However, occasional disagreements where administered on individual issues related to international politics, for example, the discussion about a reform of the Security Council of the United ...