During a recent visit to Washington, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and former President Donald Trump discussed the potential for a US-Europe trade agreement. Both leaders expressed their confidence, with Trump stating, “There will be a trade deal, 100%,” emphasizing that it would be a fair deal. Meloni, the first European leader to meet with Trump since tariffs were imposed on EU imports, shared her assurance that an agreement could be reached, declaring her ambition to “make the West great again.”
Meloni and Trump Promote Prospects for US-EU Trade Agreement
Meloni and Trump Promote Prospects for US-EU Trade Agreement
In a significant meeting, Trump and Meloni express optimism about a potential trade deal between the US and Europe.
Trump conveyed confidence in securing a favorable deal with China, revealing that discussions with Beijing representatives have been ongoing. Though both leaders have a strong rapport, Meloni aims to bridge gaps between the EU and the US, especially concerning Trump’s controversial tariffs. Despite Trump's upbeat perspective on negotiations, he noted he is not in a rush, mentioning, “Everybody wants to make a deal... If they don't want to make a deal, we'll make the deal for them.” He hinted at potential adjustments to tariffs on China, stressing the need for people to continue purchasing.
The Oval Office meeting highlighted topics including defense spending, immigration, and tariffs, with a notably warm atmosphere. Meloni referred to her visit as a "commercial peace mission," downplaying any tangible results regarding tariffs while succeeding in securing Trump’s visit to Rome, which may foster further EU connections.
Her efforts to characterize Italy positively were evident, as she pointed to achievements of her government in managing inflation and improving employment. Notably, Trump praised Meloni's stance regarding immigration and implied wishing for more like her.
However, discussions on Italy's defense spending touched on a more sensitive note, as Meloni acknowledged her nation’s current spending at 1.49% of GDP, which falls short of NATO's 2% minimum requirement. She assured that Italy would announce plans to meet the requirement by the June NATO summit, addressing a prominent concern of Trump’s.
Italian opposition leader Carlo Calenda highlighted the positive outcomes from the meeting, including Meloni’s navigation of Ukraine issues and Trump's agreement to engage with European leaders in Italy. Ultimately, Meloni departed from the meeting with enhanced credibility as a mediator between the US and the EU, while some criticized her alignment with Trump's emphasis on cultural issues.
The Oval Office meeting highlighted topics including defense spending, immigration, and tariffs, with a notably warm atmosphere. Meloni referred to her visit as a "commercial peace mission," downplaying any tangible results regarding tariffs while succeeding in securing Trump’s visit to Rome, which may foster further EU connections.
Her efforts to characterize Italy positively were evident, as she pointed to achievements of her government in managing inflation and improving employment. Notably, Trump praised Meloni's stance regarding immigration and implied wishing for more like her.
However, discussions on Italy's defense spending touched on a more sensitive note, as Meloni acknowledged her nation’s current spending at 1.49% of GDP, which falls short of NATO's 2% minimum requirement. She assured that Italy would announce plans to meet the requirement by the June NATO summit, addressing a prominent concern of Trump’s.
Italian opposition leader Carlo Calenda highlighted the positive outcomes from the meeting, including Meloni’s navigation of Ukraine issues and Trump's agreement to engage with European leaders in Italy. Ultimately, Meloni departed from the meeting with enhanced credibility as a mediator between the US and the EU, while some criticized her alignment with Trump's emphasis on cultural issues.
