France Unconcerned About Meloni’s Upcoming Visit to the US, Emphasizes EU Unity

Paris: France has expressed no concerns regarding Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni’s forthcoming visit to Washington to meet with US President Donald Trump next Thursday, a French government spokesperson clarified following remarks from a French minister suggesting the visit could threaten the European Union’s unity concerning Trump’s tariffs.

According to Ansa News Agency, Sophie Primas, a French government spokesperson, stated that Meloni’s visit does not alarm France, as any dialogue with the United States is welcomed. “Especially since Ms. Meloni indicated on Monday, through her delegation, that she was in solidarity with the European Union and that she is part of the European Union,” Primas noted. She emphasized the importance of maintaining unity when engaging with the United States, reiterating, “Once again: no worries.”

Earlier, French Industry Minister Marc Ferracci expressed concerns that Meloni’s visit might compromise EU unity in light of the hefty tariffs imposed by Trump on imports to the United States. Ferracci highlighted the risk of bilateral talks undermining the current European dynamic, stressing the need for unity in the face of Trump’s strategy to divide Europe. “Europe is only strong if it is united,” Ferracci asserted.

Despite these concerns, Manfred Weber, President of the European People’s Party (EPP), supported Meloni’s decision to visit Washington. At a press conference for the EPP’s congress in Valencia, Weber welcomed attempts to engage in dialogue with Trump, affirming that Meloni, along with Italian Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, is committed to defending Europe’s interests. Weber differentiated their approach from populist leaders, whom he accused of compromising European interests.

When questioned about whether Italian Deputy Premier Matteo Salvini falls within the category of populist leaders, Weber responded that there are numerous such leaders across Europe.