Elisabeth Borne, the prime minister of France, replied to the election results in Italy by stating that the European Union would strictly monitor the observance of certain human rights and values, such as women’s access to abortion.

Borne said on RMC Radio and BFM TV that “in Europe, we have certain principles and, therefore, we will be vigilant.”

“It is a human rights value and the respect of others, namely the right to have access to abortion, should be upheld by all,” Borne also said, while adding she did not want to comment on the “democratic choice of the Italian people”.

Giorgia Meloni looked set to become Italy’s first woman prime minister at the head of its most right-wing government since World War Two.

During the election campaign, Meloni has repeatedly denied suggestions she might roll back legislation on abortion or gay rights, while reaffirming her opposition to adoptions and surrogacy for lgbt couples.