U.S. Vice President JD Vance met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on April 18, 2025, in a significant meeting at Palazzo Chigi in Rome. This encounter, following Meloni's recent discussions with President Donald Trump in Washington, highlights the strengthening ties between Italy and the United States.
Vance arrived in Rome early that morning aboard Air Force Two, accompanied by his wife Usha and their three children, including two-year-old Mirabelle. The timing of the visit coincided with the Easter holiday, a period the Vance family chose to spend in the historic city. Upon his arrival, Vance expressed his admiration for Rome, stating, "This is an extraordinary city, full of people who love humanity and God."
Welcoming Vance, Prime Minister Meloni emphasized the importance of the U.S.-Italy relationship, declaring herself "honored to host a friend and strategic ally." She humorously remarked, "I am happy to welcome here the Vice President of the United States JD Vance, who I have not seen for a long time," referencing their previous meeting in Washington. Meloni added, "This is an opportunity to strengthen our relations. I am proud of the special relationship we have with the United States and the Trump administration."
The discussions at Palazzo Chigi centered around several pressing international issues, including trade negotiations and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Vance indicated a desire to revitalize trade discussions among Italy, the U.S., and the European Union, stating, "We will talk about economic relations and some trade negotiations not only bilaterally but also with the European Union." He noted that these topics had been previously addressed during his talks with Trump.
Additionally, the Vice President mentioned the importance of cooperation on the Ukraine conflict, saying, "I will update the prime minister on the negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. We have a sense of positivity and optimism: there is hope that we can put an end to this very brutal war." This sentiment reflects the ongoing efforts by both nations to find a resolution to the conflict.
Vance's visit is seen as a strategic step in reinforcing the Italy-U.S. alliance, particularly following Meloni's meetings with Trump. The Prime Minister noted, "We want stronger cooperation. Italy is a reliable partner." The meeting also included discussions about tariffs, with Vance indicating that they would follow up on conversations regarding potential agreements on trade duties, especially in light of Trump's upcoming visit to Italy.
The day was marked by a light-hearted atmosphere, with Vance and Meloni exchanging jokes. Upon hearing Meloni praise their previous day's talks, Vance quipped, "Prime Minister Meloni, it's wonderful to see you again, and I hope that's exactly what you said. Of course, she could have called me a jerk and I wouldn't know, but it would be in the most beautiful language imaginable, so I wouldn't even get offended."
Later in the day, Vance and his family attended Good Friday Mass at St. Peter's Basilica, where he is expected to participate in Easter Sunday ceremonies led by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's Secretary of State. However, it is unlikely that he will meet Pope Francis, who is currently recovering from a case of double pneumonia.
Vance expressed his excitement about spending Easter in Rome, stating, "This is a place that was built by people that love humans and love God." His sentiments were echoed in a post he shared on social media, where he conveyed his gratitude for his role and the opportunity to be in Rome during such a significant time for Christians worldwide.
Following their time in Italy, Vance and his family will travel to India, marking the Vice President's first visit to the country. The itinerary includes stops in New Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra, where he will meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to continue discussions on enhancing trade relations between the two nations.
Overall, the meeting between Vance and Meloni in Rome underscores a commitment to deepening the collaboration between Italy and the United States, particularly in the face of global challenges. As both leaders reiterated the importance of their partnership, it is clear that the Italy-U.S. axis is poised for further strengthening in the months to come.
