U.S. President Joe Biden will travel to Rome next month for a visit with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, President Sergio Mattarella, and Pope Francis.
The trip, scheduled for January 9-12, is expected to be Biden’s final foreign visit as president, emphasizing Meloni’s growing influence in the European Union.
According to White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, Biden’s meetings will focus on highlighting the strength of the U.S.-Italy relationship, thanking Meloni for her leadership of the G7, and discussing global challenges.
Meloni, who was recently named the most powerful person in Europe by Politico, is set to further strengthen ties with the White House, especially with President-elect Donald Trump taking office on January 20. Trump has praised Meloni as a “fantastic leader,” while she has encouraged EU leaders to approach the new Trump administration with an open mindset. Meloni also maintains a friendly relationship with Trump advisor and tech mogul Elon Musk.
Additionally, Biden, a devout Catholic, will meet with Pope Francis on January 10 to discuss global peace efforts.
