• Trump predicts a trade deal with the EU, stating he is "100%" confident.
• Meloni aims to be a bridge between the US and Europe, despite mixed results.
• Both leaders discussed immigration and defense spending during their meeting.
• Tariffs on EU imports have been temporarily suspended, but challenges remain.
• Meloni's visit was seen as both a diplomatic and commercial mission.

US President Donald Trump expressed great optimism during a meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, asserting he is "100%" certain about reaching a trade deal with the European Union. Meloni's visit to Washington marked a significant engagement, as she is the first European leader to meet Trump after his recent imposition of tariffs on EU imports, which have been temporarily paused for negotiation purposes, according to Le Monde.

During a working lunch, Trump highlighted the necessity for a "fair deal," acknowledging criticism of non-tariff barriers that the EU imposes. Despite the light-hearted atmosphere during their discussions, Meloni's aides described her mission as a "commercial peace mission" amidst a tense backdrop of trade challenges, as tariffs on imports from the EU remain a pressing concern, reports The Hill.

Both leaders, while affirming their mutual aims, acknowledged potential hurdles ahead. Trump noted he is in "no rush" to finalize a deal, implying a careful approach to discussions around tariffs, while suggesting those who are resistant to negotiations might be dealt with forcefully. Meloni, aligning with Trump on various issues, maintained her intent to foster stronger ties, saying, "The goal for me is to make the West great again," according to BBC.

The meeting's outcomes included Meloni's success in securing an invitation for Trump to visit Rome, where she hopes to facilitate discussions with other European leaders, particularly relating to tariff negotiations. Italian officials have expressed concerns regarding Meloni's approach potentially undermining EU unity, signaling the delicate balancing act at play amid these high-stakes talks, as noted by Le Monde.

Despite challenges, Meloni aims to anchor her position as a pivotal figure between the US and Europe, acknowledging that the road to a harmonious trade relationship is fraught with complications but remains hopeful about achieving collaborative outcomes. She seeks to leverage her good rapport with Trump to affect positive change in EU-US relations moving forward, as highlighted in her statements following the meeting, which emphasized the need for shared values and goals, according to BBC.