EU: Italian PM Visits Trump To Strike ‘Zero-For-Zero’ Tariffs Deal

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met with President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday.

Both leaders expressed optimism about a new trade agreement between the United States and the European Union (EU).

The meeting, held ahead of a working lunch, focused on reducing tariffs and strengthening economic ties between the US and the EU.

“There would 100 percent be a deal,” Trump declared, signaling a trade agreement with the EU.

Meloni in her remarks said she was “sure” a deal could be achieved. She emphasized that the United States remains a “reliable partner” despite ongoing disputes over tariffs.

“I’m sure we can make a deal. I’m here to help with that,” she said, adding that her visit aimed to make both the U.S. and Italy “stronger.”

Meloni said she was “aware of what I represent and of what I am defending,” as she pushed for a “zero-for-zero” tariff agreement, a deal that would eliminate certain tariffs on both sides.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is hoping that Meloni’s meeting with Trump will yield much-desired results having not spoken with Trump since his return to the political stage.

Meloni also invited Trump for an official visit to Italy, expressing her intent to host a broader summit involving other European leaders to further explore trade cooperation and reinforce EU-U.S. ties.

The visit comes at a time of renewed global trade tensions, not only between the U.S. and the EU but also with China.

Under Trump’s leadership, the U.S. imposed a 245% tariff on Chinese goods, while Beijing retaliated with tariffs of up to 125% on American imports.

The tit-for-tat measures escalated into a prolonged trade war, disrupting global supply chains and fueling economic uncertainty.

Despite the issues, Trump suggested there may still be room for compromise.

“Nobody can compete with us. I think we are going to make a very good deal with China,” Trump declared.

Asked whether the EU would consider reimposing retaliatory tariffs if talks fail, Meloni expressed confidence that a resolution would be found.

“I think the best way is that we simply speak frankly about the needs that every one of us has, and find ourselves in the middle,” she said.

EU: Italian PM Visits Trump To Strike ‘Zero-For-Zero’ Tariffs Deal is first published on The Whistler Newspaper