In a significant diplomatic moment, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is set to meet with former U.S. President Donald Trump today in Washington, D.C. This meeting marks Meloni as the first European leader to engage with Trump since he left office, and it comes at a critical juncture for negotiations between the European Union (EU) and the United States regarding tariffs.
According to Luca Ciriani, the Italian Minister for Relations with Parliament, Meloni's trip is aimed at defending Italy's interests, particularly in light of the ongoing discussions about trade tariffs that have implications for Italy's economy. "She is going to defend with determination the interests of Italy, which is a great exporting country, impacted by a tariff policy," Ciriani stated during an interview with Sky TG24 Live.
Ciriani emphasized that Italy stands as a steadfast ally of the United States politically, militarily, and economically, asserting that a direct confrontation between the EU, Italy, and the U.S. is not in anyone's interest. He expressed optimism that diplomatic channels would prevail in averting a trade war. The goal of the meeting is to extend the current 90-day suspension of reciprocal tariffs between Washington and Brussels.
Should the suspension not be prolonged, Ciriani mentioned that European funds might be mobilized to support the Italian economy. He noted, "We are waiting for the outcome of the meeting between Meloni and Trump, then we will decide on the next steps. The idea of using Pnrr funds or other resources will only be determined based on the results of tomorrow's conversation with the Prime Minister."
In addition to tariff discussions, the meeting will also touch on military spending, a topic that has gained prominence with NATO's requirements and Trump's requests for increased military budgets. Ciriani indicated that while increasing military spending to 2% of GDP is an objective, the path is narrow due to Italy's current debt levels. He stated, "We do not want to lose the positive outlook certified by rating agencies just a few days ago. The outcome of the Trump-Meloni meeting will determine how we will achieve the 2% military spending target and the timeline for it."
Furthermore, the Italian government recently approved the Documento di economia e finanza (Def), which currently does not allow for any derogation from the Stability Pact for new military expenditures that need to be approved by April 30, 2025. This decision is also contingent on the results of Meloni's discussions with Trump.
On the domestic front, Ciriani highlighted the ambitions of Fratelli d’Italia (FdI), Italy's largest political party, which is currently underrepresented in regional governance. With recent polls showing FdI around 30%, Ciriani noted that it is only natural for a significant party to aspire to govern a region in Northern Italy, specifically looking at Veneto. He remarked, "If not Veneto, it will be another region."
As for legislative reforms, both differentiated autonomy and the premierato (a proposal for a stronger executive) are on track to be implemented by the end of the legislature in 2026. Ciriani assured that despite challenges, both initiatives will proceed. "We are committed to completing the differentiated autonomy as part of our program, and we will not slow down the process," he stated.
Another significant reform under discussion is the separation of careers between judges and public prosecutors, which Ciriani believes could be finalized by the end of 2025. "By working diligently, the final approval is achievable, despite some protests from parts of the judiciary. The majority intends to move forward, and we have listened, but those in power have the right to pursue their objectives," he emphasized.
Ciriani also confirmed that a referendum will be held, allowing the public to decide on the justice reform. As the meeting approaches, the international media is closely following Meloni's visit, with the Financial Times suggesting that she may help clarify U.S. tariff demands that have been communicated to European negotiators.
Today’s agenda includes a private lunch in the cabinet room at 12:05 PM (Italian time 18:05), followed by a bilateral meeting in the Oval Office. Adolfo Urso, Italy's Minister for Enterprises and Made in Italy, stated that Meloni is expected to play a facilitating role in bridging the gap between the European Commission and the United States, leveraging the longstanding bilateral relations and her personal rapport with Trump.
As Meloni embarks on this pivotal journey, the stakes are high for Italy and the EU, with hopes that her discussions will yield fruitful outcomes in the complex landscape of international trade and defense.
