Italian newspapers presented extensive coverage of the latest controversy involving members of the royal family and allegedly Bulgaria’s former prime minister Simeon Saxe-Coburg.

Several days ago the Italian Corriere de la Sera reported that Saxe-Coburg was about to grant the Italian Prince Victor Emmanuel and businessman Pierpaolo Cerani participation in a Bulgarian hospital construction project.

Il Mattino reported that all traces of activity of Victor Emmanuel’s criminal organisation led to Bulgaria. Cerani allegedly financed Saxe-Coburg’s election campaign and Saxe-Coburg in return had to guarantee the Italians participation in Bulgarian projects.

Victor Emmanuel was already arrested, which led to heated debates in Italy, Corriere de la Serra reported.

The Italian media reported that Bulgaria also expressed significant interest in the issue and followed closely the development of investigations in Italy.

Corriere de la Serra confirmed its previous claims that Saxe-Coburg received funds in return for favourable sales and guaranteed project participation.