Meloni meets Trump: tensions, tariffs and a possible Pope meeting!

Meloni meets Trump: tensions, tariffs and a possible Pope meeting!

Rom, Italien - The visit of the US Vice President J.D. Vance in Rome is of central importance. On the occasion of his conversations with the Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who is considered close to Donald Trump, the focus is on economic issues. A hotly discussed topic is the smoldering customs dispute between the USA and the EU, which was initiated by Trump. Meloni, who criticized Trump, especially with regard to his new tariffs for EU countries, shares Vances views of the challenges for freedom of expression and democracy in Europe.

Speculation about a possible meeting between Meloni and Pope Francis have increased, even if the Pope only perceives a few appointments with foreign guests after severe pneumonia. Experts discuss the opportunity that Vance is involved in a conversation with the Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, in which the Pope could also be involved. Vance, who grew up in an evangelical household and later transferred to the Catholic faith, could play a special role in this.

invitation to diplomacy

In a fundamental speech on the New Year's reception for the diplomats of the Holy Chair, Pope Francis spoke on important topics that could also influence the context of the conversations between Vance and Meloni. He emphasized the importance of the "path of peace", which requires respect for every human life. These views could support the diplomatic efforts in an international context, especially with regard to growing tensions, as the current Iran conflict shows, in which indirect conversations between the USA and Iran take place in Rome on Saturday.

Francis demanded a worldwide respect for human rights and expressed concerns about the increasing anti -Semitic acts and the persecution of Christians worldwide. These topics are particularly relevant because over 360 million Christians experience persecution and discrimination based on their beliefs. The upcoming meeting could therefore not only offer an opportunity for economic discussions, but also for an inter -religious dialogue and the promotion of religious freedom.

technology and ethics in focus

Another central concern of the Pope is the ethical use of new technologies. In his message to the World Peace Day, he devoted himself to artificial intelligence and pointed out that technological developments should serve people. These considerations could provide important impulses for the discussions between the leading political representatives, especially with regard to the challenges that arise from digitization.

After his stay in Italy, Vance will continue his journey in India, supported by his wife Usha Vance, who has Indian roots. This could be a further step in a more comprehensive diplomatic commitment of the United States under the influence of political movements and international relationships.

For more information see Kleine Zeitung, [Vatican News] (https://www.vaticannews.va/de/papst/news/2024-01/papst-franziskus-diplomatie-politik-politung-freiheit- Democracy) and and SPIEGEL.