Meloni assured that Italy did not want to “slow down or sabotage” European integration. Rather, she will advocate that the EU become more effective in dealing with crises. The right-wing foreign policy expert also emphasized that Italy would “remain a reliable NATO partner” and would support Ukraine towards Russia.

The 45-year-old was sworn in as Prime Minister at the weekend and took over the government from her pro-European predecessor Mario Draghi. The right-wing coalition led by the FDI secured an absolute majority in both chambers of parliament in late September elections.