Meloni’s Unconventional Mission in the US: What Italy’s Prime Minister Aims to Achieve for Europe

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is set to meet with former President Donald Trump during her upcoming trip to the United States. This visit is significant as she aims to balance Italy’s interests with those of the European Union, especially after Trump has imposed tariffs on EU goods.

A recent report suggests that about 10% of Italy’s exports, roughly €67 billion, go to the US. With Trump’s tariffs, Italy’s economic forecast has been negatively impacted, sparking urgency for Meloni to advocate for a “zero-for-zero” tariff agreement for the EU. Prior to her trip, Meloni acknowledged the tough climate, expressing determination to defend Italy’s position.

Interestingly, Meloni is seen as one of the few European leaders who has a strong rapport with Trump. Their mutual admiration has been highlighted before, with Trump praising Meloni for her political savvy. Unlike many of her European counterparts, she aligns more closely with Trump’s right-wing policies, including taking stances against mass immigration and criticizing “globalist elites.”

Riccardo Alcaro from the Italian Institute for International Affairs points out that Meloni understands the delicate geopolitical balance at play. While she values Italy’s connection to the US, she also recognizes the need for Europe to present a united front in negotiations. This balance is critical, especially with tensions rising due to trade discussions.

Recent reactions to Meloni’s visit are varied. Some Italian politicians celebrate her courage, while others express fears about her proximity to Trump. For instance, members of the opposition worry she might prioritize Trump’s interests over Italy’s or Europe’s. This concern reflects a broader anxiety among European nations who are wary of Trump’s “divide and conquer” strategy.

Moreover, the EU has clarified that Meloni’s trip is coordinated, emphasizing that trade negotiations must be a collective effort rather than driven by individual member states. Meloni’s team has made it clear that the intention is to promote a European approach rather than negotiate for Italy alone.

Lastly, there is speculation about her discussions with Trump regarding China’s growing influence. Alcaro suggests that Meloni could subtly affirm that Europe is not rushing into agreements with China, as a way to strengthen ties with the US.

As Meloni prepares for her meeting, she lightheartedly admitted to feeling the pressure. Given the stakes involved, her approach will be instrumental in shaping Italy’s future on the world stage, particularly in relation to US trade policies and European unity.

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