The Prime Minister of Italy, Giorgia Meloniheld a meeting this Saturday with the president-elect of the United States, Donald Trumpat his residence in Mar-a-Lagoin Florida.
The visit, which had not been previously announced, included a private dinner, the screening of a documentary and conversations on topics of bilateral and international interest, according to Italian media.
During their stay of approximately five hours, Meloni and Trump shared the screening of the documentary “Eastman Dilemma: Lawfare or Justice”which addresses the thesis of an alleged “judicial system with double standards” in the United States, accusing judicial institutions of bias towards conservative figures and lawyers.
“It’s very exciting, I’m here with a fantastic woman, the Italian prime minister. It really took Europe by surprise“Trump said according to statements collected by Italian public radio and television. RAI.
Italian sources reported that among the issues discussed by Meloni and Trump, the case of the Italian journalist stands out. Cecilia Saladetained in Iran since December, as well as issues related to trade tariffs and the conflict in Ukrainewhich affect both Europe and the bilateral relations between Italy and the United States.
The meeting was also attended by key figures in the next Trump administration, such as Florida Senator Marco Rubioappointed as Secretary of State; the congressman Mike Waltzfuture national security advisor; and Scott Bessantappointed Secretary of the Treasury.
Meloni’s visit to Mar-a-Lago It comes days before the current American president, Joe Bidentrip to Italy January 9 to 12in what will be his last presidential mission before ceding power to Trump on January 20.
The elected president of the United States, Donald Trumpnominated the businessman and billionaire Tilman Fertitta as ambassador in Italiahighlighting his business success and philanthropic commitment.
Fertitta, owner of Landry’s, Inc.a conglomerate that manages restaurants, hotels and casinos, as well as the basketball team Houston Rocketsis recognized for his ability to lead large organizations and for his pragmatic approach to business.
In a message on his social network Truth SocialTrump praised Fertitta as “an accomplished businessmanwho has founded and built one of our country’s leading entertainment and real estate companies, which employs approximately 50,000 Americans”.
Additionally, Fertitta was recognized for his philanthropy, supporting causes related to children, law enforcement and the medical community.
The businessman played a prominent role in Trump’s 2024 election campaign, donating at least $487,300 to the Trump 47 Committee and $3,300 to the presidential re-election committee.
According to Bloomberg, Fertitta is one of the top donors selected by Trump to fill key positions in his next administration.
If confirmed by the United States Senate, Fertitta will assume a strategic position at a crucial time for relations between USA e Italiaa country governed by the prime minister Giorgia Meloniwho shares an ideological alignment with Trump.
The affinity between both leaders could influence diplomatic dynamics, strengthening cooperation in areas such as trade, technology and security.
Italiaas one of the main European allies of the United States and a member of the I’LL TAKE, plays a key role in transatlantic politics. Fertitta will seek to consolidate bilateral ties and strengthen collaboration in strategic sectors, taking advantage of the political and business connections between both countries.
(With information from EFE and Europa Press)
