Giorgia Meloni, Italy's Prime Minister, delivered a powerful address to the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on February 22, capturing the crowd's attention with her assertive stance on Italy’s progress and its pivotal role within the transatlantic alliance. Speaking via video link, she expressed her pride in representing Italy, setting the stage for what she described as a moment of connection between American and European conservatives.
"I couldn’t miss this edition of CPAC," Meloni remarked, offering gratitude to Italian-Americans for being exceptional ambassadors of Italian genius. Meloni’s speech was not just about local accolades; it aimed to delegitimize critiques surrounding her government's performance, asserting, "The narrative proposed by the mainstream media was false. Italy is thriving, with records low levels of immigration, and we are increasing freedoms across the board." These affirmations came amid rising skepticism from within Europe about the strength of conservative leadership.
At the heart of Meloni’s message was her insistence on the strategic importance of unity between the U.S. and Europe. She stated emphatically, "The West cannot exist without America and vice versa." This connection is particularly highlighted as she voiced solidarity with the Ukrainian cause, describing Ukraine as "a proud people fighting for freedom against a brutal aggressor." Her remarks emphasized the need to continue working together for sustainable peace, indirectly contrasting past leadership disasters, particularly referencing the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan under previous administrations.
Meloni’s address was also characterized by her criticisms of the radical left, claiming they seek to erase history and divide people along various lines. "We will not let ourselves be divided because we are only strong when we are united," she declared. This statement reflects her broader agenda of strengthening traditional conservative values against what she referred to as the threats posed by the left's ideological warfare.
Emphasizing her role as a bridge-builder, Meloni aimed to dispel fears among European allies about Trump’s presidency potentially drifting away from them. "I know Donald Trump; he is strong and effective, and I bet we will prove them wrong who think he will turn away from Europe." She reassured attendees by asserting clear expectations for future collaboration under Trump’s leadership, distinguishing the current conservative wave as one poised to secure safety and freedoms for both continents.
Her optimistic view of Italy's internal affairs included economic growth and increased employment figures, proclaiming millions of new jobs had been created under her government's policies. This positive rhetoric was meant to counteract fears cultivated by left-leaning narratives claiming conservative rules would lead to isolation and economic downturns. "Our economy is thriving as we dismantle the fake news surrounding us," Meloni insisted, playing up the narrative of resilience and rebirth of Italian conservatism.
With regards to Ukraine, Meloni underscored the urgency of collective action and strong leadership, saying, "A lasting peace can only be built by the contribution of all, especially under strong leadership." This calls for American and European entities to join hands against common threats. The sentiment struck chords with CPAC attendees, as they cheered her declarations defending the conservative ethos and national pride.
Meloni's speech was not without controversy, as she was preceded by remarks from Steve Bannon, who faced backlash for appearing to salute fascism, resulting in some European leaders distancing themselves from CPAC. Nonetheless, the intensity of CPAC’s applause for Meloni signified endorsement among conservative circles and reflected on her consistently rising stature among European leaders who align with Trump’s brand of nationalism.
Encapsulating the conservative agenda, Meloni’s address reiterated the sentiment of unity over division, challenging narratives around identity crises within Europe and advocating for recognition of shared heritage and values. "If those who were upset about Vice President Vance’s comments had shown the same pride when the EU lost its strategic autonomy, we would live in a stronger Europe today," she noted, pressing her point about the importance of national pride.
Reflecting on the larger geopolitical narrative, she contended, "The left defines figures like Trump and myself as threats to democracy; this is the double standard we have become accustomed to, but thankfully people are no longer fooled by their lies. The citizens continue to vote for us because we defend freedom," she concluded, signaling toward the future of the conservative movement both within Italy and across the Atlantic.