President-elect Donald Trump is set to host Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni at his Mar-a-Lago Club tonight, according to sources familiar with the meeting. Meloni is considered a key world leader to watch as Trump prepares to assume office, given her significant relationships with influential figures in his circle, such as Elon Musk.
Previously, Meloni, Trump, and Musk shared a meal together in Paris during the reopening of the Notre Dame cathedral, highlighting the existing connections between them. While Trump's team has not officially confirmed the meeting, spokesperson Steven Cheung mentioned that it is not uncommon for world leaders to reach out to President Trump following his historic election victory to strengthen relations with the United States.
Having risen to power in 2022 on a wave of far-right sentiment, Meloni has been actively pursuing a highly conservative social agenda while leading a popular governing coalition in Italy. Her visit to Mar-a-Lago signifies the importance of diplomatic engagements between the United States and Italy, especially as both countries navigate complex global challenges.