Amid the signing of a peace agreement in Gaza, held in Egypt, former President Donald Trump became a focal point by showering compliments on Italy's Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni. At a summit in Sharm El-Sheikh attended by over twenty world leaders, Trump made headlines by commenting on Meloni's appearance, noting that such remarks might be considered politically incorrect back home in the United States.
In a jubilant mood following the pact that ended the Gaza conflict, Trump addressed each leader in attendance. When it was Meloni's turn, he shifted from a formal tone to a more casual one, making a statement that drew considerable attention: "Italy, we have a woman, a young one who is... I can't say it, because usually saying it means the end of your political career. She's a beautiful young lady."
Despite acknowledging the risk, he continued his praise. "In the U.S., if you call a woman 'beautiful', it's career-ending. But I'll take that chance. Where is she? There she is. You don't mind being called beautiful, right? Because you are. Thank you for coming," he directed towards Meloni, who stood behind him during his speech. Cameras caught Meloni's restrained smile as Trump addressed her from the podium.
Trump Promotes Meloni's Autobiography
Not content with his remarks at the summit, Trump took to Truth Social on Tuesday to promote Meloni's autobiography. "Giorgia Meloni, the GREAT Prime Minister of Italy, has penned a new book: I Am Giorgia: My Roots, My Principles. Giorgia is doing incredible work for the wonderful Italian people, and this book delves into her journey of faith, family, and love for her country, which granted her the wisdom and courage to serve her nation proudly," Trump wrote.
He added, "She's an inspiration for everyone. Get your copy today!" encouraging his followers to purchase the book, which retails for $21 on Amazon.
A Diplomatic Event Turned Personal
The unusual compliment, which some media outlets openly criticized, took place during an international summit organized to finalize an agreement that ended two years of conflict in Gaza. Trump, alongside the presidents of Egypt, Turkey, and Qatar, signed the document in a formal ceremony marking what he described as a new era for the Middle East.
"Finally, there is peace in the Middle East," Trump declared from the podium, shortly after signing the agreement, which followed a ceasefire and the release of hostages taken by Hamas in the October 7, 2023, attack. Notably, neither Israel nor Hamas participated in the signing.
During his address, Trump also alluded to future negotiations based on his “20-point plan,” which he claimed were progressing faster than anticipated.
Meloni Focuses on Peace Agreement, Avoids Personal Comments
Prime Minister Meloni chose not to respond to Trump's personal comments. Instead, she emphasized the significance of the peace agreement and the importance of acting responsibly in this new phase. "The greatest risk is not being pragmatic. We must avoid anything that could escalate tensions and use this delicate phase to achieve great satisfaction," she stated.
She also praised Trump's role in the agreement's signing: "This is a great success for Donald Trump. I believe he's right in calling it a major achievement, and we wish him further success, starting with Ukraine."
Meloni announced that Italy would actively participate in Gaza's reconstruction and aim to serve as a bridge between Europe and the Arab world. Regarding the release of hostages, she remarked, "It's an extraordinary achievement, the result of determined international diplomacy and the implementation of the first phase of President Donald Trump's Peace Plan."
Key Questions About Trump's Remarks and the Peace Summit
What did Donald Trump say about Giorgia Meloni?
Trump described Meloni as a "beautiful young lady" at the summit, acknowledging that such comments might be considered politically incorrect in the U.S.
How did Giorgia Meloni respond to Trump's remarks?
Meloni chose not to address Trump's personal comments and instead focused on the importance of the peace agreement reached during the summit.
What was the purpose of the summit in Egypt?
The summit aimed to finalize a peace agreement that ended two years of conflict in Gaza, marking a new era for the Middle East.