FILE PHOTO: Italian Finance Minister Roberto Gualtieri looks on during his swearing-in ceremony at Quirinale Presidential Palace in Rome, Italy September 5, 2019. REUTERS/Ciro de Luca

ROME (Reuters) - Italy respects the market nature of a possible merger between Fiat Chrysler FCHA.MI and Peugeot-owner PSA PEUP.PA but is also aware that such a crucial sector warrants high vigilance on the government's part, the country's economy minister said.

“Such processes are inevitable but it is right that the government should follow with great attention and care how they take place,” Roberto Gualtieri said.

“The government follows developments with respect, it is a market matter, but it is also aware we are talking about a very important industry for our country.”