Abstract: National interest (raison d’état in French) is one of the fundamental terms in the realistic school of the theory of international relations. The realists believe that states in their interaction and their competition for power assert their objectives and ambitions, which is what in a particular situation they regard as being of the greatest advantage to them – their interest, the national interest. The article will show how national interests are understood in Italy and in Spain.

Keywords: National interest, Spain, Italy, European Union