Who is Giorgia Meloni? Trump hosts Italian PM at Mar-a-Lago
President-elect Trump welcomed Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to Mar-a-Lago over the weekend, signaling a desire to strengthen ties with one of his closest allies in Europe. During a dinner on Saturday night, Trump praised Meloni, highlighting her rapid rise in European politics after being elected in 2022 on a conservative, anti-immigration platform that has been labeled as “far-right” by many in the media.
Meloni, at 47, is not only the first female Italian prime minister but also the leader of the Brothers of Italy party since 2014. Her popularity surged in response to the Italian government’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to her election victory.
The Italian prime minister’s coalition government aligns closely with Trump’s ideology, making her a key ally within the European Union. Additionally, Meloni has cultivated a strong relationship with Elon Musk, a prominent supporter of Trump, who has been a frequent visitor to Mar-a-Lago since the election.
Meloni’s firm stance on illegal immigration, particularly her “return hubs” policy, has garnered attention across Europe. This policy ensures that migrants are not released into Italy during their asylum process, presenting a model that Meloni believes reflects the European spirit.
In addition to her immigration policies, Meloni has taken controversial stances on social issues, such as limiting parental rights for same-sex couples. Her government has maintained stability, avoiding internal conflicts within her party and thwarting opposition attempts to challenge her leadership effectively.
With her strong position in Italian politics, Meloni is well-positioned to act as a mediator between the Trump administration and the European Union in the coming years. Her visit to Mar-a-Lago, where she met with Trump and Senator Marco Rubio, underscores the importance of the U.S.-Italy relationship.
President Biden is scheduled to travel to Rome later this week to meet with Meloni and Pope Francis. The White House has indicated that Biden’s meeting with Meloni will emphasize the strength of the U.S.-Italy relationship and acknowledge her leadership during the G7 summit.
Anders Hagstrom, a reporter with Fox News Digital covering national politics and breaking news, contributed to this article. For more updates, follow Anders on Twitter @Hagstrom_Anders.
