Meloni Urges Stronger NATO Role for Europe, Sidesteps Rutte Flight Controversy

Ekhbary News Agency | June 20, 2024

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called for a stronger NATO, urging Europe to become the alliance's most robust and solid component during the E5 summit in Berlin. Meloni stressed the imperative for Europe to assume its defense and security responsibilities, affirming Italy's full commitment to this endeavor. As it happens, Meloni conspicuously avoided direct comment on the escalating "Rutte case," which concerns 500 flights to the Iranian front from Italian bases, a controversy unfolding concurrently with the summit.

US Ambassador Praises Meloni's Leadership

In a separate development, US Ambassador to Italy, Tilman J Fertitta, lauded Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's "excellent work" over the past five years. Speaking to SkyTg24, Fertitta stated that Meloni has elevated Italy to a "world leader" enjoying significant respect, expressing confidence that Italians will continue making astute decisions regarding their leadership. The Ambassador highlighted that former President Donald Trump, despite his general displeasure with NATO, views Meloni as "one of the true leaders in this part of the world," explaining the focus on Italy as a strong ally from which the United States anticipates much.

Bilateral Ties Reaffirmed

Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Lega leader Matteo Salvini expressed his pleasure at accepting Ambassador Fertitta's invitation to the US Independence Day ceremony on July 2nd at Villa Taverna. Enterprise Minister Adolfo Urso also confirmed his attendance, noting the enduring robust bilateral relations between the two nations. He cited ongoing cooperation in critical areas such as space, the supply of essential raw materials, and fostering foreign investment and American tourism in Italy, relationships that, for what it's worth, span over six decades.