Meaning: This quote by Mario Monti, an Italian economist and politician who served as the European Commissioner for Competition from 1999 to 2004, highlights the importance of maintaining a neutral and unbiased approach to competition assessment. In this quote, Monti emphasizes the significance of focusing on the territorial aspects of competition and disregarding the nationality of companies in order to ensure that competition assessment remains free from external influences such as trade or political considerations.

Monti's assertion that "reference to the territory and total disregard for the nationality of the companies is of course the best guarantee that competition assessment remain just that and doesn't get affected by trade or other considerations" underscores the principle of fairness and objectivity in competition policy. By emphasizing the importance of assessing competition based on territorial factors rather than the nationality of companies, Monti is advocating for a level playing field where competition is evaluated on its merits rather than on the basis of national interests or protectionism.

The reference to "territory" in Monti's quote suggests a focus on the geographic scope within which competition takes place. This could include considerations such as market boundaries, consumer access, and the impact of competition on local economies. By emphasizing the territorial dimension of competition, Monti is highlighting the need to assess competition within specific geographic contexts, taking into account local market dynamics and the potential effects on consumers and businesses operating within those territories.

Furthermore, Monti's emphasis on "total disregard for the nationality of the companies" reflects a commitment to treating all companies equally in the competition assessment process, regardless of their country of origin. This approach aligns with the principles of non-discrimination and fair competition, as it prevents favoritism or bias based on the nationality of companies. By disregarding the nationality of companies, competition authorities can focus on evaluating the competitive impact of firms based on objective criteria such as market share, pricing behavior, and innovation, rather than on nationalistic or protectionist considerations.

Monti's assertion that maintaining a neutral stance towards the nationality of companies is "the best guarantee that competition assessment remain just that and doesn't get affected by trade or other considerations" underscores the potential risks of allowing external factors to influence competition policy. By highlighting the need to insulate competition assessment from trade or political considerations, Monti is advocating for a principled and independent approach to competition policy that prioritizes consumer welfare and economic efficiency.

In summary, Mario Monti's quote emphasizes the importance of maintaining a neutral and unbiased approach to competition assessment by focusing on the territorial aspects of competition and disregarding the nationality of companies. By advocating for a fair and objective evaluation of competition, Monti underscores the significance of ensuring that competition policy remains free from external influences such as trade or political considerations. This principled approach to competition assessment is essential for promoting fair competition, protecting consumer interests, and fostering economic efficiency within a competitive marketplace.