With the looming possibility of a trade war, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is emerging as a significant ally for US President-elect Donald Trump within the European Union (EU).
On Tuesday, Meloni emphasized the necessity for the EU to adopt a pragmatic strategy in light of the incoming Trump administration. Her aim is to mitigate potential trade conflicts between Europe and the United States.
The EU has been on high alert regarding trade relations ever since Trump, recently re-elected, indicated plans to impose tariffs ranging from 10% to 20% on imports from all nations—except China, which could face a staggering 60% tariff if his policies are implemented.
Meloni, who leads a right-wing government, has developed a closer rapport with Trump in recent months, evident in their shared public appearances and mutual praise. This connection positions her as one of Trump’s key EU allies, particularly amid political turmoil in Germany and France.
“It’s crucial to maintain a pragmatic, constructive, and open dialogue with the new Trump administration,” Meloni articulated to Italy’s parliament ahead of the upcoming European Council summit in Brussels. “We must explore areas ripe for EU-US cooperation while striving to prevent trade disputes that would harm both parties.”
During his election campaign, Trump warned that the EU would “pay a big price ” for perceived shortcomings in purchasing US exports, particularly American cars, citing the millions of vehicles the 27-nation bloc sells in the US.
In his previous term, Trump labeled Europe as a “foe” of the United States.
According to the latest data from the US Census Bureau, EU exports to the US reached $576.3 billion (€549.2 billion) in 2023, accounting for about 20% of the EU’s total exports, and yielding a goods trade surplus of $208.6 billion (€198.8 billion).
The EU’s ambassador to the US, Jovita Neliupšienė, has stated that the bloc is prepared to respond to any trade disagreements that may arise under Trump’s new administration, though she refrained from detailing specific measures.
In response to Trump’s tariff threats, Meloni previously suggested that the EU should concentrate on organizing its internal affairs rather than being overly concerned about the US. “Don’t ask what the US can do for you; ask what Europe should do for itself,” she remarked, paraphrasing the iconic phrase from President John F. Kennedy.
“Europe must strike a balance,” she continued, emphasizing the importance of addressing competitiveness and tariffs.
Earlier this month, Meloni and Trump dined together at an event hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron to celebrate the reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. Trump reportedly referred to Meloni as a “real live wire” and expressed his readiness to collaborate with her, calling her a “fantastic leader and person.” In a recent post on X, Meloni shared a video featuring Trump’s comments, expressing her gratitude for his kind words.
Photo credit & article inspired by: Euronews
