WASHINGTON, DC — President Donald Trump welcomed Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to the White House on Thursday, underscoring efforts to deepen cooperation between the United States and Italy during Trump’s second term.
The meeting marked a continuation of dialogue between the two leaders, who previously met in January at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida. Speaking alongside Trump, Meloni emphasized the strong bilateral relationship, calling it “a friendship that comes from history.” She thanked Trump for his invitation and reiterated Italy’s commitment to strengthening ties across key sectors, including defense, energy, and space.
Trade was a major topic of discussion. Trump defended existing tariffs on European Union imports, including a 10% duty, calling them beneficial for U.S. industries. He reiterated that his administration is in “no rush” to finalize a new trade agreement with the EU, maintaining a firm stance on what he described as an “America-first” economic strategy.
Meloni, for her part, expressed optimism about resolving trade disputes and noted the significant presence of Italian investment in the U.S. “Italian enterprises will invest, as they’ve been doing for many years,” she said, referencing plans for continued commercial cooperation.
The leaders also addressed the ongoing war in Ukraine. Trump repeated his call for a negotiated ceasefire and questioned the effectiveness of current U.S. military support, while Meloni reaffirmed Italy’s support for Ukraine and its alignment with NATO commitments. “We both share a fight against war and against ideologies that would like to erase our history,” she said.
Meloni highlighted Italy’s recent economic progress, pointing to lower inflation and job growth. “One million more jobs in the last two years. Now, inflation is going down,” she said. “Italy is a stable country, a reliable country.”
President Trump accepted Prime Minister Meloni’s invitation to make an official visit to Italy soon. There is also consideration in holding, on such an occasion, a meeting between the United States and European leaders.
Se Hoon Kim
Se Hoon Kim is the Managing Editor at Global Strat View, and White House Correspondent.
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