Italian newspapers, especially Corriere della Sera, were keen to highlight in their political pages a story that could almost be dismissed as gossip or lighthearted news. Giorgia Meloni and Donald Trump had a conversation. Not in a formal bilateral meeting, as one might expect, but on the sidelines of the splendid dinner hosted by Macron in Paris following the inauguration of the “new” Notre Dame.

The table was still set, the glasses of what was undoubtedly excellent wine still within reach, according to the reports. Nevertheless, both Trump’s and Meloni’s staff were eager to let the world know that the two leaders spoke. About what? Ukraine, the Middle East, relations with Europe. In short, about the world and its future.

Some claim Giorgia possesses a charisma and conviviality reminiscent of Berlusconi in his prime. Where diplomacy falls short, personal empathy bridges the gap. Is that a small thing? Others argue that she is poised to become the key European leader in negotiations with the new American president, putting Italy in a position of significant prestige—far from the “isolated Italy” narrative that opposition parties have been shouting about since June.

Of course, empathy and proficiency in direct communication with leaders are not enough on their own to navigate the complexities of global issues. But Meloni also has a solid political foundation: she is the only leader of the EU’s founding countries enjoying political stability and relative economic steadiness—certainly better off than France, shaken by a government crisis, and Germany, grappling with both a government crisis and the automotive industry’s struggles.

To round off this fruitful gathering at Notre Dame, our Prime Minister also squeezed in a casual meeting with Elon Musk. It has been a year since the eccentric entrepreneur attended Atreju, the annual and now almost Christmas-like festival of Fratelli d’Italia. At the time, it was dismissed as a quirky technological event. But today, those who talk to Musk are engaging with the main player in The Donald’s victory.

In short: empathy, English fluency, and foresight!

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With Donald Trump’s election as the 47th President of the United States, reactions from Italian political leaders quickly followed. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was one of the first to congratulate Trump, emphasizing the longstanding ties between Italy and the United States, which she called “sister nations” united by an unbreakable alliance and shared values. In her social media message, Meloni reaffirmed her commitment to strengthening this strategic relationship, wishing the president-elect success in his new term.

Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini also welcomed Trump’s victory, noting his longstanding support for the former president. In an interview with RTL 102.5, Salvini underscored the importance of Trump’s leadership for a possible new international balance, expressing hope that this could lead to peaceful solutions to ongoing conflicts, such as the war between Russia and Ukraine. Salvini also praised Trump’s focus on patriotism, border control, and freedom of speech, values that the deputy prime minister sees as essential.

From the diplomatic front, Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani took a measured approach to Trump’s victory, highlighting Italy’s desire to maintain strong transatlantic relations. Speaking to Sky, Tajani stated that the Italian government’s priority remains the reinforcement of ties with the United States, which it considers its primary foreign policy partner. Tajani added that the government would be prepared to discuss issues like NATO and European defense to ensure that Italy continues to be a pillar of international security.

On the opposition side, Five Star Movement leader Giuseppe Conte welcomed the news with a congratulatory message to the president-elect, while urging reflection on the global challenges that await the U.S. and the world. Conte emphasized the need to halt conflicts and build a new world order based on shared rules, advocating for a more courageous and proactive Europe. Matteo Renzi, leader of Italia Viva, echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Europe should “wake up” in the face of this new reality.

Meanwhile, Riccardo Magi, leader of the More Europe party, expressed concerns about a second Trump presidency. Magi voiced doubts about the impact of Trump’s administration on civil rights, minority protections, and the environment, warning that Europe risks being left alone to confront global challenges, from the Russian invasion of Ukraine to the climate crisis.

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