<p>Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni&nbsp;on Wednesday (Dec 18) took a defensive stance on her friendship with billionaire Elon Musk and informed Italian lawmakers it will not influence her in areas in which the latter has economic interests.</p>

<p>“I can be a friend of Elon Musk and at the same time the head of the first Italian government that made a new law to regulate private activity in space,’’ said Meloni, while replying to questions in a customary parliamentary discussion held before the European Union summit scheduled for this week in Brussels.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meloni took a jibe at her predecessors and said that previous Italian leaders “who thought they had a good relationship, even a friendship, with a foreign leader, they had to slavishly follow what the others did.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/elon-musk-surpasses-the-net-worth-of-bezos-and-zuckerberg-combined-785218">Elon Musk surpasses the net worth of Bezos and Zuckerberg combined</a></p>

<p>She said that she shared good relationships “with many people” but “I don’t take orders from anyone and you should be happy about this."</p>

<h2><strong>Meloni and Musk's friendship</strong></h2>

<p>Meloni was frequently seen with Tesla and SpaceX billionaire Elon Musk after coming to power in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This year, Meloni’s government approved a framework which paved the way for foreign space companies to operate in the country. It is expected that this will generate $7.7 billion in investments by 2026.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Elon Musk's Philanthropic Donations Fail to Meet Minimum Threshold</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/elon-musks-philanthropic-donations-fail-to-meet-minimum-threshold-785169/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Amid this, the friendship between Meloni and Musk also garnered a lot of attention. Musk refuted reports of having any kind of romantic relationship with Meloni after a photo of them looking at each other went viral last September.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
The two also attended a black-tie event in New York where Meloni was presented an award by Musk.</p>

<p>A year ago, Musk was also seen at an event organised for the ruling party's youth members in Italy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Wednesday (Dec 18) took a defensive stance on her friendship with billionaire Elon Musk and informed Italian lawmakers it will not influence her in areas in which the latter has economic interests.

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Wednesday (Dec 18) took a defensive stance on her friendship with billionaire Elon Musk and informed Italian lawmakers it will not influence her in areas in which the latter has economic interests. “I can be a friend of Elon Musk and at the same time the head of the first Italian government that made a new law to regulate private activity in space,’’ said Meloni, while replying to questions in a customary parliamentary discussion held before the European Union summit scheduled for this week in Brussels. Meloni took a jibe at her predecessors and said that previous Italian leaders “who thought they had a good relationship, even a friendship, with a foreign leader, they had to slavishly follow what the others did.” Also Read: Elon Musk surpasses the net worth of Bezos and Zuckerberg combined She said that she shared good relationships “with many people” but “I don’t take orders from anyone and you should be happy about this." Meloni and Musk's friendship Meloni was frequently seen with Tesla and SpaceX billionaire Elon Musk after coming to power in 2022. This year, Meloni’s government approved a framework which paved the way for foreign space companies to operate in the country. It is expected that this will generate $7.7 billion in investments by 2026. Watch: Elon Musk's Philanthropic Donations Fail to Meet Minimum Threshold Amid this, the friendship between Meloni and Musk also garnered a lot of attention. Musk refuted reports of having any kind of romantic relationship with Meloni after a photo of them looking at each other went viral last September. The two also attended a black-tie event in New York where Meloni was presented an award by Musk. A year ago, Musk was also seen at an event organised for the ruling party's youth members in Italy. (With inputs from agencies)

Italy's Giorgia Meloni speaks on her friendship with Musk, says 'Don't take orders from anyone'

<p>Italy's minister of Enterprises Adolfo Urso, who is on an India visit, has said that India&nbsp;and Italy are working together in space and the nuclear domains. Italy will soon nominate a space attache at its consulate in the southern Indian city of Bengaluru.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Minister Adolfo who is also minister for "Made in Italy" said, "We believe that Italy and India, who already have major roles in space, could cooperate on what is most important and meaningful for its economic and civil consequences."</p>

<p>He was also hopeful about the development of the India-Middle East Europe corridor, which the Italians also call the "Cotton Route". The corridor was announced at the Delhi G20 summit and aims to link India with Europe via West Asia through a series of infrastructure projects.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-jaishankar-set-for-3-day-italy-visit-to-join-g7-foreign-ministers-meet-778800"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;India and Italy strengthen ties with Indo-Mediterranean initiative</strong></a></p>

<p>The comment&nbsp;comes a month after India and Italy unveiled the Joint Strategic Action Plan for 2025-2029 after the meeting of PM Modi and Italian PM Giorgia Meloni at the G20 Brazil summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The action plan calls for regular political dialogue, economic cooperation, connectivity, defence, and expansion of cooperation between the Italian Space Agency (ASI) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).</p>

<p><br />
Sidhant Sibal: Italy's view on India Middle East Europe Corridor?</p>

<p>Adolfo Urso: &nbsp;It is essential and crucial for Italy and India both, representing two natural docks for Europe and for the wider Indo-Pacific continent that will be able to get access through Italy and India. It is central for goods, for maritime traffic&nbsp;but central also to connecting through optical fiber wires and spreading information and data. It is the economy of the future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sidhant Sibal: But do you see challenges, with the war in Gaza, Syria?</p>

<p>Adolfo Urso: We obviously work as G7 President&nbsp;towards de-escalation aiming at turning down tensions to get back to co-exist. It is with no doubt of paramount importance in those territories but for us all too. In order to build with them through the cotton route, the route of development, peace and coexistence.</p>

<p>Sidhant Sibal: Italy has decided to appoint a space attache at its consulate in Bengaluru&nbsp;if you can elaborate on it?</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Italian Navy's Amerigo Vespucci Anchors In Mumbai For A Five-Day Visit</strong></p>

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<p>Adolfo Urso: We believe that Italy and India, which already have major roles in space, could cooperate on what is most important and meaningful for its economic and civil consequences. Earth observation is crucial for the territory's governance and the exploration of space, first on the moon and then on Mars. Also to understand what best can be used for the development of our planet. We can and we have to do it together because we believe that this could be the way forward towards development.</p>

<p>Sidhant Sibal: And are you looking at nuclear cooperation?</p>

<p>Adolfo Urso: Italy, the Italian government has decided to revive the nuclear journey in a major way, characterized by Italian science to build the new plants, the small reactors, the fourth generation nuclear reactors, such plants on an industrial scale which are compatible, easy to move. This for sure can be done in synergy with India that plans to use nuclear energy production in order to build the energy of the future. This is safe, clean, compatible and industrially advanced.&nbsp;</p>


Italy's minister of Enterprises Adolfo Urso, who is on an India visit, has said that India and Italy are working together in space and the nuclear domains. Italy will soon nominate a space attache at its consulate in the southern Indian city of Bengaluru.

Italy's minister of Enterprises Adolfo Urso, who is on an India visit, has said that India and Italy are working together in space and the nuclear domains. Italy will soon nominate a space attache at its consulate in the southern Indian city of Bengaluru. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Minister Adolfo who is also minister for "Made in Italy" said, "We believe that Italy and India, who already have major roles in space, could cooperate on what is most important and meaningful for its economic and civil consequences." He was also hopeful about the development of the India-Middle East Europe corridor, which the Italians also call the "Cotton Route". The corridor was announced at the Delhi G20 summit and aims to link India with Europe via West Asia through a series of infrastructure projects. Also read: India and Italy strengthen ties with Indo-Mediterranean initiative The comment comes a month after India and Italy unveiled the Joint Strategic Action Plan for 2025-2029 after the meeting of PM Modi and Italian PM Giorgia Meloni at the G20 Brazil summit. The action plan calls for regular political dialogue, economic cooperation, connectivity, defence, and expansion of cooperation between the Italian Space Agency (ASI) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Sidhant Sibal: Italy's view on India Middle East Europe Corridor? Adolfo Urso: It is essential and crucial for Italy and India both, representing two natural docks for Europe and for the wider Indo-Pacific continent that will be able to get access through Italy and India. It is central for goods, for maritime traffic but central also to connecting through optical fiber wires and spreading information and data. It is the economy of the future. Sidhant Sibal: But do you see challenges, with the war in Gaza, Syria? Adolfo Urso: We obviously work as G7 President towards de-escalation aiming at turning down tensions to get back to co-exist. It is with no doubt of paramount importance in those territories but for us all too. In order to build with them through the cotton route, the route of development, peace and coexistence. Sidhant Sibal: Italy has decided to appoint a space attache at its consulate in Bengaluru if you can elaborate on it? Watch | Italian Navy's Amerigo Vespucci Anchors In Mumbai For A Five-Day Visit × Adolfo Urso: We believe that Italy and India, which already have major roles in space, could cooperate on what is most important and meaningful for its economic and civil consequences. Earth observation is crucial for the territory's governance and the exploration of space, first on the moon and then on Mars. Also to understand what best can be used for the development of our planet. We can and we have to do it together because we believe that this could be the way forward towards development. Sidhant Sibal: And are you looking at nuclear cooperation? Adolfo Urso: Italy, the Italian government has decided to revive the nuclear journey in a major way, characterized by Italian science to build the new plants, the small reactors, the fourth generation nuclear reactors, such plants on an industrial scale which are compatible, easy to move. This for sure can be done in synergy with India that plans to use nuclear energy production in order to build the energy of the future. This is safe, clean, compatible and industrially advanced.

Italy to work with India in space, nuclear domains

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni calls for better relations with the Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad to 'help Syrian refugees return home'. Watch in for more details!

'Better Ties With Assad Will Help Syrian Refugees Return Home', Says Meloni

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has praised a recent agreement with Albania aimed at managing migration flows, describing it as a "courageous" step forward. The deal focuses on enhancing cooperation between the two countries to address illegal migration and improve border security. Meloni emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to ensure safe and legal pathways for migrants while tackling human trafficking. The agreement is seen as a key component of Italy's broader immigration strategy and highlights the government's commitment to addressing migration challenges in the Mediterranean region.

Italian PM Meloni Hails ‘Courageous’ Albania Migrant Deal

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said Tuesday she would visit Lebanon, where Italian troops are part of a UN mission that has accused Israeli forces of firing on peacekeepers. Watch for more details!

Italy's PM Giorgia Meloni to Visit Lebanon Amid Attacks on UNIFIL Troops

<p>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has told her Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu that attacks on UN peacekeepers in Lebanon are unacceptable, her office said on Sunday.</p>

<p>"Prime Minister Meloni reiterated the unacceptability of UNIFIL being attacked by Israeli armed forces," the Italian government said in a statement.</p>

<p>Italy is a significant contributor to the UN mission known as UNIFIL.</p>

<p>In a phone conversation with Netanyahu, Meloni also called for the "full implementation" of the UN's Security Council Resolution 1701 on Lebanon and stressed the urgent need for a de-escalation of conflict in the region, her office said.</p>

<p>''As you know, the headquarters of the UNIFIL mission and two Italian bases have been hit by gunfire shots fired by the Israeli forces, and therefore I cannot, even as Italy, not to condemn again what has happened," Meloni said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/international-anger-mounts-over-idf-firing-at-un-peacekeepers-766496" target="_blank"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;International Anger Mounts Over IDF Firing At UN Peacekeepers</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/international-anger-mounts-over-idf-firing-at-un-peacekeepers-766496/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>"It is unacceptable, it violates what was established by resolution 1701 of the United Nations. The Italian government, as you know, has strongly protested with the Israeli authorities. On this issue, together with Emmanuel (Macron) and Pedro (Sanchez), so France and Spain, we have also decided to make a common declaration.," she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two UN peacekeepers were injured on Friday by an Israeli strike near their watchtower in south Lebanon, the Israeli military said, while blasts shook the peacekeepers' main base in the area for the second time in 48 hours as Israeli forces battled Hezbollah.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vs-un-netanyahu-tells-guterres-to-withdraw-south-lebanon-peacekeepers-767053"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Israel vs UN: Netanyahu tells Guterres to withdraw peacekeepers from south Lebanon</strong></a></p>

<p>Previously,&nbsp;Italy's defence minister had slammed Israel for the shooting by calling it "intolerable".&nbsp;The minister, Guido Crosetto said he "protested" to Israel's defence minister and summoned the Israeli ambassador over the incident.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has told her Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu that attacks on UN peacekeepers in Lebanon are unacceptable, her office said on Sunday.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has told her Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu that attacks on UN peacekeepers in Lebanon are unacceptable, her office said on Sunday. "Prime Minister Meloni reiterated the unacceptability of UNIFIL being attacked by Israeli armed forces," the Italian government said in a statement. Italy is a significant contributor to the UN mission known as UNIFIL. In a phone conversation with Netanyahu, Meloni also called for the "full implementation" of the UN's Security Council Resolution 1701 on Lebanon and stressed the urgent need for a de-escalation of conflict in the region, her office said. ''As you know, the headquarters of the UNIFIL mission and two Italian bases have been hit by gunfire shots fired by the Israeli forces, and therefore I cannot, even as Italy, not to condemn again what has happened," Meloni said. Watch | International Anger Mounts Over IDF Firing At UN Peacekeepers "It is unacceptable, it violates what was established by resolution 1701 of the United Nations. The Italian government, as you know, has strongly protested with the Israeli authorities. On this issue, together with Emmanuel (Macron) and Pedro (Sanchez), so France and Spain, we have also decided to make a common declaration.," she added. Two UN peacekeepers were injured on Friday by an Israeli strike near their watchtower in south Lebanon, the Israeli military said, while blasts shook the peacekeepers' main base in the area for the second time in 48 hours as Israeli forces battled Hezbollah. Also read | Israel vs UN: Netanyahu tells Guterres to withdraw peacekeepers from south Lebanon Previously, Italy's defence minister had slammed Israel for the shooting by calling it "intolerable". The minister, Guido Crosetto said he "protested" to Israel's defence minister and summoned the Israeli ambassador over the incident. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'It is unacceptable': Italian PM Meloni tells Netanyahu after attack on UN peacekeepers

<p>Elon Musk showered lavish praise on Giorgia Meloni at an event held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Tuesday. The billionaire was invited to introduce the Italian Prime Minister at the Atlantic Council’s glitzy gala dinner in New York, a move that didn't go down too well with many of the think tank's staffers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the Ziegfeld Ballroom in downtown Manhattan, Musk called Meloni “someone who is even more beautiful on the inside than she is on the outside". With 700 people at the venue, including several heads of state, the SpaceX CEO then went on to call her “authentic, honest and thoughtful", Politico reported.</p>

<p>“That can’t always be said about politicians,” Musk joked. Other leaders present couldn't help but laugh at the statement.</p>

<p>The 53-year-old businessman presented 47-year-old Meloni with the Global Citizens Award here, which was followed by a short hug and a stare in the eyes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Musk and Meloni have met each other several times over the past few years ever since their first meeting at Meloni’s official residence in Rome in June 2023. They talked about West’s declining birth rates and the potential of artificial intelligence.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spacex-to-send-5-uncrewed-starships-to-mars-in-2-years-claims-elon-musk-761072">SpaceX to send 5 uncrewed Starships to Mars in 2 years, claims Elon Musk</a></p>

<p>The X owner was also present at a political festival hosted by Meloni’s far-right Brothers of Italy party last December.</p>

<p>After Meloni took to the stage to address the hundreds of attendees, she returned the favour by calling Musk a “precious genius".&nbsp;</p>

<p>She talked about her vision of Western conservatism, before talking about patriotism. Melon defended the "values" of the West and "a civilization built over the centuries".</p>

<p>“Defending our deep roots is the precondition for reaping ripe fruit," the Italian prime minister said.</p>

<p>She challenged the notion of the “inevitable decline of the West.”</p>

<p>Musk, who was there with his mother Maye Musk, gave Meloni a standing ovation along with everyone else in the ballroom.</p>

<h2>Musk-Meloni take over social media&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The two were also seen chatting with each other at the event while sitting at the same table. Reports suggest that Meloni personally requested that Musk introduce her at the high-profile event.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Elon Musk and Giorgia Meloni in New York today. 🇮🇹🇺🇸<br />
<br />
<a href="https://t.co/UBwjnWtM0A">pic.twitter.com/UBwjnWtM0A</a></p>
— DogeDesigner (@cb_doge) <a href="https://twitter.com/cb_doge/status/1838371030315716652?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the internet has exploded seeing the two together at the event, with social media users commenting, "That's Amore!" with another writing, "I am totally shipping these two. Perfect."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Find someone who looks at you like Giorgia Meloni...<br />
<br />
you know the rest <a href="https://t.co/w8XBQk2uRn">pic.twitter.com/w8XBQk2uRn</a></p>
— Deathrow Bodine (@Deathrow_Bodine) <a href="https://twitter.com/Deathrow_Bodine/status/1838678158876508273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Real Deal ... they would make a great couple," another user wrote, with another sharing a photo of the two and writing, "Find someone who looks at you like Giorgia Meloni..."</p>

<p>"They make a great couple actually. She has a thing for him," another user wrote, as others called them a "perfect couple".</p>

<p>Musk has 12 kids with three different women while Meloni publicly called it off with Andrea Giambruno he made headlines for making lewd comments on Italian TV.</p>

<h2>Musk&nbsp;speaks up</h2>

<p>After looking at all the noise being made on his social media platform about his lovely gestures towards Meloni, Musk posted a message early in the morning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He wrote, "We are not dating."</p>

<p>“I was there with my Mom. There is no romantic relationship whatsoever with PM Meloni,” Musk tweeted in response to a post about him and Meloni.&nbsp;“We all know what happened next.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We are not dating</p>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1838727329180205304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>That should silence the chatter, or at least he hopes it would.</p>


Elon Musk showered lavish praise on Giorgia Meloni at an event held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Tuesday. The billionaire was invited to introduce the Italian Prime Minister at the Atlantic Council’s glitzy gala dinner in New York, a move that didn't go down too well with many of the think tank's staffers.

Elon Musk showered lavish praise on Giorgia Meloni at an event held on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on Tuesday. The billionaire was invited to introduce the Italian Prime Minister at the Atlantic Council’s glitzy gala dinner in New York, a move that didn't go down too well with many of the think tank's staffers. At the Ziegfeld Ballroom in downtown Manhattan, Musk called Meloni “someone who is even more beautiful on the inside than she is on the outside". With 700 people at the venue, including several heads of state, the SpaceX CEO then went on to call her “authentic, honest and thoughtful", Politico reported. “That can’t always be said about politicians,” Musk joked. Other leaders present couldn't help but laugh at the statement. The 53-year-old businessman presented 47-year-old Meloni with the Global Citizens Award here, which was followed by a short hug and a stare in the eyes. Musk and Meloni have met each other several times over the past few years ever since their first meeting at Meloni’s official residence in Rome in June 2023. They talked about West’s declining birth rates and the potential of artificial intelligence. Also Read: SpaceX to send 5 uncrewed Starships to Mars in 2 years, claims Elon Musk The X owner was also present at a political festival hosted by Meloni’s far-right Brothers of Italy party last December. After Meloni took to the stage to address the hundreds of attendees, she returned the favour by calling Musk a “precious genius". She talked about her vision of Western conservatism, before talking about patriotism. Melon defended the "values" of the West and "a civilization built over the centuries". “Defending our deep roots is the precondition for reaping ripe fruit," the Italian prime minister said. She challenged the notion of the “inevitable decline of the West.” Musk, who was there with his mother Maye Musk, gave Meloni a standing ovation along with everyone else in the ballroom. Musk-Meloni take over social media The two were also seen chatting with each other at the event while sitting at the same table. Reports suggest that Meloni personally requested that Musk introduce her at the high-profile event. Elon Musk and Giorgia Meloni in New York today. 🇮🇹🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/UBwjnWtM0A — DogeDesigner (@cb_doge) September 24, 2024 × Meanwhile, the internet has exploded seeing the two together at the event, with social media users commenting, "That's Amore!" with another writing, "I am totally shipping these two. Perfect." Find someone who looks at you like Giorgia Meloni... you know the rest pic.twitter.com/w8XBQk2uRn — Deathrow Bodine (@Deathrow_Bodine) September 24, 2024 × "The Real Deal ... they would make a great couple," another user wrote, with another sharing a photo of the two and writing, "Find someone who looks at you like Giorgia Meloni..." "They make a great couple actually. She has a thing for him," another user wrote, as others called them a "perfect couple". Musk has 12 kids with three different women while Meloni publicly called it off with Andrea Giambruno he made headlines for making lewd comments on Italian TV. Musk speaks up After looking at all the noise being made on his social media platform about his lovely gestures towards Meloni, Musk posted a message early in the morning. He wrote, "We are not dating." “I was there with my Mom. There is no romantic relationship whatsoever with PM Meloni,” Musk tweeted in response to a post about him and Meloni. “We all know what happened next.” We are not dating — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) September 24, 2024 × That should silence the chatter, or at least he hopes it would.

What's brewing? Musk gushes over 'beautiful' Meloni at awards event; then says, 'We are...'

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has promised "a new era" in cross-border cooperation to tackle people smuggling gangs ahead of talks on Monday with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, part of his push to reset Britain's relations with Europe.

UK PM Starmer to meet Italy's Meloni for illegal immigration talks

<p>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Saturday (Sep 7)&nbsp;said India can play a role in resolving the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meloni issued the statement after meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in northern Italy’s Cernobbio city.</p>

<p>“It is obvious that if the rules of international law are broken we will get a multiplication of chaos and crisis, but it is also obvious that with the multiplication of crisis, we will have a natural fragmentation of the geo-economic space, that is, in the long run, economic globalization and questioning of the rules of international law will not walk together. This is what I also said to my Chinese counterparts, we must choose, because the two things do not go together, it is also the reason why I think that in the end nations, like China and India, can play a role and must play a role in resolving the conflict in Ukraine,” the Italian prime minister said.</p>

<p>“I believe China and India have a role to play in resolving the conflict. The only thing that cannot happen is to think that the conflict can be solved by abandoning Ukraine. The choice of supporting Ukraine has been first and foremost a choice of national interest, and it’s a choice that won’t change,” she added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Watch: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, speaking at the 50th edition of The European House – Ambrosetti Forum in Cernobbio, northern Italy, says, "It is obvious that if the rules of international law are broken we will get a multiplication of chaos and crisis, but it is… <a href="https://t.co/A1R5uLARKI">pic.twitter.com/A1R5uLARKI</a></p>
— IANS (@ians_india) <a href="https://twitter.com/ians_india/status/1832450206719471860?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Her remarks came a day after Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that India could play a role in solving the ongoing conflict.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj6rfihtrGIAxVwRmcHHQRMLesQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-says-india-and-other-friends-could-act-as-mediators-in-peace-talks-with-ukraine-756094" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-says-india-and-other-friends-could-act-as-mediators-in-peace-talks-with-ukraine-756094&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj6rfihtrGIAxVwRmcHHQRMLesQxfQBKAB6BAgJEAE">Russian President Putin says ‘friends’ India, China, Brazil could act as mediators in peace talks with Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>“We respect our friends and partners who I think are sincerely interested in addressing and resolving all the issues associated with the conflict (with Ukraine). China, Brazil, India… I am in contact with my partners and I have no doubt that the leaders of these countries, and we have the relations of trust and confidence with one another, will be really interested in providing a helping hand,” said Putin.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Saturday (Sep 7) said India can play a role in resolving the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Meloni issued the statement after meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in northern Italy’s Cernobbio city.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Saturday (Sep 7) said India can play a role in resolving the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Meloni issued the statement after meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in northern Italy’s Cernobbio city. “It is obvious that if the rules of international law are broken we will get a multiplication of chaos and crisis, but it is also obvious that with the multiplication of crisis, we will have a natural fragmentation of the geo-economic space, that is, in the long run, economic globalization and questioning of the rules of international law will not walk together. This is what I also said to my Chinese counterparts, we must choose, because the two things do not go together, it is also the reason why I think that in the end nations, like China and India, can play a role and must play a role in resolving the conflict in Ukraine,” the Italian prime minister said. “I believe China and India have a role to play in resolving the conflict. The only thing that cannot happen is to think that the conflict can be solved by abandoning Ukraine. The choice of supporting Ukraine has been first and foremost a choice of national interest, and it’s a choice that won’t change,” she added. Watch: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, speaking at the 50th edition of The European House – Ambrosetti Forum in Cernobbio, northern Italy, says, "It is obvious that if the rules of international law are broken we will get a multiplication of chaos and crisis, but it is… pic.twitter.com/A1R5uLARKI — IANS (@ians_india) September 7, 2024 × Her remarks came a day after Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that India could play a role in solving the ongoing conflict. Also read: Russian President Putin says ‘friends’ India, China, Brazil could act as mediators in peace talks with Ukraine “We respect our friends and partners who I think are sincerely interested in addressing and resolving all the issues associated with the conflict (with Ukraine). China, Brazil, India… I am in contact with my partners and I have no doubt that the leaders of these countries, and we have the relations of trust and confidence with one another, will be really interested in providing a helping hand,” said Putin. (With inputs from agencies)

After Putin, Italy’s Meloni says India can help resolve Russia-Ukraine conflict

In a world increasingly marred in conflicts, more and more leaders are reaching out to find Common Ground. Joining the list is Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni who is all said to embark on a high-stake visit to China. The trip is scheduled for July 26th to the 31st. Watch in for more details!

Meloni in China: Italy PM Giorgia Meloni calls need to improve access to Chinese markets | WION

<p>The 33rd Olympics began with a splash — quite literally — as rain-drenched Paris kicked off the quadrennial event to host 10,500 athletes from around the world. For the first time, the Games have an equal number of male and female athletes: 5,250. Rather than athletes marching along a track as typically seen in years past, guests and those watching from home saw a colourful river parade through the French capital city.<img alt="A photograph taken from an helicopter on July 26, 2024 shows an aerial view of the Eiffel Tower and the Olympics Rings lightened up during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in Paris." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d9c60ab-0d91-446a-8709-dbc716c72855" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/OlympicOpeningCeremony.png" /></p>

<p><em>An aerial view of the Eiffel Tower and the Olympics Rings lightened up during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in Paris | AFP</em></p>

<p>Besides, the Olympians who win a medal will take home a real piece of the Eiffel Tower. Fragments of iron that were removed and preserved during renovations to the Eiffel Tower during the 20th century have been infused into the medals. Each medal includes 18 grams (0.04 pounds) of Eiffel iron. As I write The Capitals this week, India has opened its account in the medal tally after 22-year-old shooter Manu Bhaker won bronze in the 10m Air Pistol event.</p>

<p>So far, two of the biggest Olympic headlines have been following:</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-paris-olympics-ioc-faces-backlash-for-allowing-steven-van-de-velde-to-compete-despite-child-abuse-charges-744239"><strong>Paris Olympics: IOC faces backlash for allowing Steven van de Velde to compete despite child abuse charges</strong></a></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/blasphemy-and-insult-paris-olympics-draws-backlash-for-last-supper-drag-performance-744681"><strong>'Blasphemy and Insult': Paris Olympics draws backlash for 'Last Supper' drag performance</strong></a></p>

<p>For all the latest updates from the 2024 Paris Olympics, click on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/olympic-games-2024">Olympics 2024</a> icon on the <a href="www.wionews.com">WION</a> website.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Beijing, China</strong></h2>

<p><img alt="Italy's national flag (L) flutters beside the Chinese flag outside Tiananmen Square, during the official visit of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Beijing on July 28, 2024" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a34d819a-f569-46d4-9131-c41a3d3153e1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Italyg20.png" /></p>

<p><em>Italy's national flag (L) flutters beside the Chinese flag outside Tiananmen Square, during the official visit of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Beijing on July 28, 2024 | AFP</em></p>

<p>Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni arrived in Beijing on Saturday (July 27) in her first visit to the country since she took office nearly two years ago. She is due to meet President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, in a key bilateral visit after Italy backed out of China's flagship Belt and Road Initiative.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meloni will be looking to "relaunch bilateral relations in sectors of common interest", an Italian official told the news agency AFP on condition of anonymity.</p>

<p>Talks will focus on "the main issues on the international agenda, starting with the war in Ukraine", the official added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinpings-2023-when-chinas-bri-dream-faced-an-italian-reality-check-674821">Xi Jinping's 2023: When China's BRI dream faced an Italian 'reality check'</a></strong></p>

<p>Italy was the only G7 nation to sign up for the BRI and its exit became a defining setback for Beijing.</p>

<h2><strong>Caracas, Venezuela</strong></h2>

<p>Voting in Venezuela's presidential elections opened on Sunday (July 28) with clash between&nbsp;President Nicolas Maduro and rival Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia&nbsp;— supported by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-elections-meet-maria-corina-machado-the-iron-lady-slaying-her-way-to-challenge-president-maduro-744101">María Corina Machado</a>, the purported 'Iron Lady' of the South American petro-state.</p>

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<p>Around 21 million people are registered to vote in the once wealthy South American state that saw GDP drop 80 per cent in a decade, following which more than 7 million of its 30 million emigrated elsewhere.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Polls suggest that Sunday's vote poses the biggest threat so far to over two decades of "Chavismo," the populist movement founded by Maduro's predecessor and mentor, Hugo Chavez.</p>

<h2><strong>Tokyo, Japan</strong></h2>

<p><strong><img alt="External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar after unveiling a Mahatma Gandhi bust in Tokyo, Japan on July 28, 2024 ahead of Quad Foreign Ministers Meet | X/@DrSJaishankar" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5be7c589-9673-4689-8fc7-1de73986900c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/JaishankarJapan%20%281%29.png" /></strong></p>

<p><em>External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar after unveiling a Mahatma Gandhi bust in Tokyo, Japan on July 28, 2024 ahead of Quad Foreign Ministers Meet | X/@DrSJaishankar</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rising powers advance their "national interests by identifying and exploiting opportunities created by global contradictions," India's External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar wrote in his latest book 'Why Bharat Matters'. WION first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-narendra-modi-to-visit-ukraine-in-august-744593">reported</a> that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Ukraine's capital Kyiv next month.</p>

<p>This will be over a month after the optics of Modi embracing Russia's President Vladimir Putin created furore in the Western capitals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In between Modi's Moscow and Kyiv visits, External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar is in the Japanese capital Tokyo for the Quad foreign ministers meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jaishankar-restates-modis-moscow-message-after-unveiling-gandhi-bust-in-tokyo-744900">Jaishankar restates Modi's Moscow message after unveiling Gandhi bust in Tokyo</a></strong></p>

<p>Before that meeting, Jaishankar addressed a public gathering after unveiling a Mahatma Gandhi bust in Tokyo. Restating&nbsp;Modi's Moscow message — "no era should be an era of war"&nbsp;— the South Block's '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/s-jaishankar-face-of-indias-assertive-foreign-policy-returns-as-external-affairs-minister-730187">China specialist</a>' has paved the path forward for Modi's Kyiv visit.&nbsp;</p>


The 33rd Olympics began with a splash — quite literally — as rain-drenched Paris kicked off the quadrennial event to host 10,500 athletes from around the world. For the first time, the Games have an equal number of male and female athletes: 5,250.

The 33rd Olympics began with a splash — quite literally — as rain-drenched Paris kicked off the quadrennial event to host 10,500 athletes from around the world. For the first time, the Games have an equal number of male and female athletes: 5,250. Rather than athletes marching along a track as typically seen in years past, guests and those watching from home saw a colourful river parade through the French capital city. An aerial view of the Eiffel Tower and the Olympics Rings lightened up during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in Paris | AFP Besides, the Olympians who win a medal will take home a real piece of the Eiffel Tower. Fragments of iron that were removed and preserved during renovations to the Eiffel Tower during the 20th century have been infused into the medals. Each medal includes 18 grams (0.04 pounds) of Eiffel iron. As I write The Capitals this week, India has opened its account in the medal tally after 22-year-old shooter Manu Bhaker won bronze in the 10m Air Pistol event. So far, two of the biggest Olympic headlines have been following: Paris Olympics: IOC faces backlash for allowing Steven van de Velde to compete despite child abuse charges 'Blasphemy and Insult': Paris Olympics draws backlash for 'Last Supper' drag performance For all the latest updates from the 2024 Paris Olympics, click on the Olympics 2024 icon on the WION website. Beijing, China Italy's national flag (L) flutters beside the Chinese flag outside Tiananmen Square, during the official visit of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Beijing on July 28, 2024 | AFP Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni arrived in Beijing on Saturday (July 27) in her first visit to the country since she took office nearly two years ago. She is due to meet President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, in a key bilateral visit after Italy backed out of China's flagship Belt and Road Initiative. Meloni will be looking to "relaunch bilateral relations in sectors of common interest", an Italian official told the news agency AFP on condition of anonymity. Talks will focus on "the main issues on the international agenda, starting with the war in Ukraine", the official added. Also read | Xi Jinping's 2023: When China's BRI dream faced an Italian 'reality check' Italy was the only G7 nation to sign up for the BRI and its exit became a defining setback for Beijing. Caracas, Venezuela Voting in Venezuela's presidential elections opened on Sunday (July 28) with clash between President Nicolas Maduro and rival Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia — supported by María Corina Machado, the purported 'Iron Lady' of the South American petro-state. View this post on Instagram A post shared by WION (@wionews) × Around 21 million people are registered to vote in the once wealthy South American state that saw GDP drop 80 per cent in a decade, following which more than 7 million of its 30 million emigrated elsewhere. Polls suggest that Sunday's vote poses the biggest threat so far to over two decades of "Chavismo," the populist movement founded by Maduro's predecessor and mentor, Hugo Chavez. Tokyo, Japan External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar after unveiling a Mahatma Gandhi bust in Tokyo, Japan on July 28, 2024 ahead of Quad Foreign Ministers Meet | X/@DrSJaishankar Rising powers advance their "national interests by identifying and exploiting opportunities created by global contradictions," India's External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar wrote in his latest book 'Why Bharat Matters'. WION first reported that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Ukraine's capital Kyiv next month. This will be over a month after the optics of Modi embracing Russia's President Vladimir Putin created furore in the Western capitals. In between Modi's Moscow and Kyiv visits, External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar is in the Japanese capital Tokyo for the Quad foreign ministers meeting. Also read | Jaishankar restates Modi's Moscow message after unveiling Gandhi bust in Tokyo Before that meeting, Jaishankar addressed a public gathering after unveiling a Mahatma Gandhi bust in Tokyo. Restating Modi's Moscow message — "no era should be an era of war" — the South Block's 'China specialist' has paved the path forward for Modi's Kyiv visit.

The Capitals: Meloni in Beijing after exiting Xi's BRI dream; Jaishankar's peace message in Tokyo; and more

<p>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni arrived in Beijing on Saturday, Chinese state media said, in her first visit to the country since she took office nearly two years ago.</p>

<p>During the five-day trip she is due to meet President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, with boosting bilateral trade and ending the war in Ukraine topping the agenda.</p>

<p>"Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni arrived in Beijing on the afternoon of 27 July for an official visit," state broadcaster CGTN said in a post on the Weibo social network.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj1qLjbi8eHAxVSs1YBHWpzAr4QxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/giorgia-meloni-slams-eu-centrists-for-excluding-her-from-top-job-talks-rejects-pre-packaged-deal-733015" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/giorgia-meloni-slams-eu-centrists-for-excluding-her-from-top-job-talks-rejects-pre-packaged-deal-733015&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj1qLjbi8eHAxVSs1YBHWpzAr4QxfQBKAB6BAgPEAE">Giorgia Meloni slams EU centrists for excluding her from top job talks; rejects `pre-packaged` deal</a></strong></p>

<p>Meloni will be looking to "relaunch bilateral relations in sectors of common interest", an Italian official told AFP on condition of anonymity.</p>

<p>Talks will focus on "the main issues on the international agenda, starting with the war in Ukraine", the official added.</p>

<p>Meloni's administration withdrew from China's vast Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) last year, having been the only G7 nation to sign up.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;China: Italian PM Giorgia Meloni to visit country for five days</strong></p>

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<p>Before taking office, Meloni said joining the initiative -- a central pillar of Xi's bid to expand China's clout overseas -- had been a "mistake".</p>

<p>Italy's non-binding memorandum of understanding with China had contained broad undertakings for cooperation in logistics, infrastructure, financial and environmental sectors.</p>

<p>But details were scarce and the lack of transparency fuelled distrust among Italy's allies.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni arrived in Beijing on Saturday, Chinese state media said, in her first visit to the country since she took office nearly two years ago.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni arrived in Beijing on Saturday, Chinese state media said, in her first visit to the country since she took office nearly two years ago. During the five-day trip she is due to meet President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, with boosting bilateral trade and ending the war in Ukraine topping the agenda. "Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni arrived in Beijing on the afternoon of 27 July for an official visit," state broadcaster CGTN said in a post on the Weibo social network. Also read: Giorgia Meloni slams EU centrists for excluding her from top job talks; rejects `pre-packaged` deal Meloni will be looking to "relaunch bilateral relations in sectors of common interest", an Italian official told AFP on condition of anonymity. Talks will focus on "the main issues on the international agenda, starting with the war in Ukraine", the official added. Meloni's administration withdrew from China's vast Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) last year, having been the only G7 nation to sign up. Watch: China: Italian PM Giorgia Meloni to visit country for five days × Before taking office, Meloni said joining the initiative -- a central pillar of Xi's bid to expand China's clout overseas -- had been a "mistake". Italy's non-binding memorandum of understanding with China had contained broad undertakings for cooperation in logistics, infrastructure, financial and environmental sectors. But details were scarce and the lack of transparency fuelled distrust among Italy's allies. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Italian PM Giorgia Meloni arrives in China after withdrawing from BRI last year

<p>An Italian court has ordered a journalist to pay $5,466 (5,000 euros) in damages to Prime Minister Giorgia&nbsp;Meloni for mocking her on social media, according to local media reports. The journalist will also have to cough up&nbsp;$1,311&nbsp;for a post in October 2021 making fun of the Italian PM's height.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The journalist, identified as Giulia Cortes, initially shared a doctored photo of Meloni with a portrait of&nbsp;late fascist leader Benito Mussolini in the background.</p>

<p>Meloni, whose far-right Brothers of Italy party was in the opposition at the time,&nbsp;took exception to the pictures posted by Cortes.&nbsp;36-year-old Cortes removed the picture after receiving a request but got into trouble when she insulted Meloni on X (formerly Twitter) by calling her a 'little woman'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"You don't scare me, Giorgia Meloni. After all, you're only 1.2 metres tall. I can't even see you," wrote&nbsp;Cortes at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meloni stands anywhere between 1.58 metres and 1.63 metres, as per different media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Italy PM Giorgia Meloni's diplomatic mission to China</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cortese's defence team argued that the contested messages were not offensive or defamatory in nature and hoped to reduce the financial penalty. However, the single bench of&nbsp;Valerio Natale&nbsp;established the journalist's responsibility for her actions on social media, leading to the conviction.</p>

<p>Cortese can appeal against the sentence, and Meloni's lawyer said the Prime Minister would donate to charity any damages she eventually receives.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-italian-pm-giorgia-melonis-eye-roll-as-biden-arrives-late-to-nato-summit-goes-viral-740260"><strong>Watch | Italian PM Giorgia Meloni's eye-roll as Biden arrives late to NATO summit goes viral</strong></a></p>

<p>This is not the first instance that an individual has been forced to pay a fine for crossing Meloni. Last year, a court in Rome fined best-selling author Roberto Saviano $1,093 plus legal expenses after he insulted her on television in 2021 over her hardline stance on illegal immigration.</p>

<p>A new report by&nbsp;Reporters Without Borders had relegated Italy five places to 46th in its&nbsp;World Press Freedom Index report, In May, journalists at&nbsp;state broadcaster RAI went on strike to protest against the "suffocating control" over their work by Meloni's government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An Italian court has ordered a journalist to pay $5,466 (5,000 euros) in damages to Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for mocking her on social media, according to local media reports.

An Italian court has ordered a journalist to pay $5,466 (5,000 euros) in damages to Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for mocking her on social media, according to local media reports. The journalist will also have to cough up $1,311 for a post in October 2021 making fun of the Italian PM's height. The journalist, identified as Giulia Cortes, initially shared a doctored photo of Meloni with a portrait of late fascist leader Benito Mussolini in the background. Meloni, whose far-right Brothers of Italy party was in the opposition at the time, took exception to the pictures posted by Cortes. 36-year-old Cortes removed the picture after receiving a request but got into trouble when she insulted Meloni on X (formerly Twitter) by calling her a 'little woman'. "You don't scare me, Giorgia Meloni. After all, you're only 1.2 metres tall. I can't even see you," wrote Cortes at the time. Meloni stands anywhere between 1.58 metres and 1.63 metres, as per different media reports. Watch | Italy PM Giorgia Meloni's diplomatic mission to China × Cortese's defence team argued that the contested messages were not offensive or defamatory in nature and hoped to reduce the financial penalty. However, the single bench of Valerio Natale established the journalist's responsibility for her actions on social media, leading to the conviction. Cortese can appeal against the sentence, and Meloni's lawyer said the Prime Minister would donate to charity any damages she eventually receives. Watch | Italian PM Giorgia Meloni's eye-roll as Biden arrives late to NATO summit goes viral This is not the first instance that an individual has been forced to pay a fine for crossing Meloni. Last year, a court in Rome fined best-selling author Roberto Saviano $1,093 plus legal expenses after he insulted her on television in 2021 over her hardline stance on illegal immigration. A new report by Reporters Without Borders had relegated Italy five places to 46th in its World Press Freedom Index report, In May, journalists at state broadcaster RAI went on strike to protest against the "suffocating control" over their work by Meloni's government. (With inputs from agencies)

Italian journalist to pay PM Giorgia Meloni $5,500 for mocking her height

Ten months after a planned China visit was scrapped, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is likely to land in Beijing later this month, the result of the two countries “letting diplomacy work” after Rome quit the Belt and Road Initiative, analysts say.

Italy PM Giorgia Meloni's diplomatic mission to China

Italian PM Giorgia Meloni likely to visit China this month

Italian PM Giorgia Meloni likely to visit China in July end

<p>Thousands of Indian farm labourers urged an end to "slavery" in Italy on Tuesday after the gruesome death of a worker shone a light on the brutal exploitation of undocumented migrants.</p>

<p>Satnam Singh, 31, who had been working without legal papers, died last week after his arm was sliced off by a machine. The farmer he was working for dumped him by the road, along with his severed limb.</p>

<p>"He was thrown out like a dog. There is exploitation every day, we suffer it every day, it must end now," said Gurmukh Singh, head of the Indian community in the Lazio region of central Italy.</p>

<p>"We come here to work, not to die," he told AFP.</p>

<p>Children held up colourful signs reading "Justice for Satnam Singh" as the procession snaked through Latina, a city in a rural area south of Rome that is home to tens of thousands of Indian migrant workers.</p>

<p>Indians have worked in the Agro Pontino -- the Pontine Marshes -- since the mid-1980s, harvesting pumpkins, leeks, beans and tomatoes, and working on flower farms or in buffalo mozzarella production.</p>

<p>Singh's death is being investigated, but it has sparked a wider debate in Italy over how to tackle systemic abuses in the agriculture sector, where use of undocumented workers and their abuse by farmers or gangmasters is rife.</p>

<p>"Satnam died in one day, I die every day. Because I too am a labour victim," said Parambar Singh, whose eye was seriously hurt in a work accident.</p>

<p>"My boss said he couldn't take me to hospital because I didn't have a contract," said the 33-year-old, who has struggled to work since.</p>

<p>"I have been waiting 10 months for justice," he said.</p>

<p>The workers get paid an average of 20 euros ($21) a day for up to 14 hours labour, according to the Osservatorio Placido Rizzotto, which analyses working conditions in the agriculture industry.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Protests in Italy after death of Indian farm labourer Satnam Singh, PM Meloni deplores tragedy</strong></p>

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<p>Far-right Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has sought to reduce the number of undocumented migrants to Italy, while increasing pathways for legal migration for non-EU workers to tackle labour shortages.</p>

<p>But according to the Confagricoltura Agribusiness Association, only around 30 per cent of workers given a visa actually travel to Italy, meaning there are never enough labourers to meet farmers' needs.</p>

<p>This month, Meloni said Italy's visa system was being exploited by organised crime groups to smuggle in illegal migrants.</p>

<p>She condemned the circumstances of Singh's death, saying they were "inhumane acts that do not belong to the Italian people".</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi-0c2noviGAxUcavUHHVuRDRoQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-farm-worker-in-italy-dies-after-employer-dump-him-on-roadside-with-severed-arm-733453" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-farm-worker-in-italy-dies-after-employer-dump-him-on-roadside-with-severed-arm-733453&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi-0c2noviGAxUcavUHHVuRDRoQxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">Indian farm worker in Italy dies after employer dumps him on roadside with severed arm</a></strong></p>

<p>"I hope that this barbarism will be harshly punished," she told her cabinet ministers last week.<br />
Italy's financial police identified nearly 60,000 undocumented workers from January 2023 to June 2024.</p>

<p>But Italy's largest trade union CGIL estimates that as many as 230,000 people -- over a quarter of the country's seasonal agricultural workers -- do not have a contract.</p>

<p>While some are Italian, most are undocumented foreigners.</p>

<p>Female workers fare particularly badly, earning even less than their male counterparts and in some cases suffering sexual exploitation, it says.</p>

<p>"We all need regular job contracts, not to be trapped in this slavery," said Kaur Akveer, a 37-year-old who was part of a group of women in colourful saris marching behind the community leaders.</p>


Thousands of Indian farm labourers urged an end to "slavery" in Italy on Tuesday after the gruesome death of a worker shone a light on the brutal exploitation of undocumented migrants.

Thousands of Indian farm labourers urged an end to "slavery" in Italy on Tuesday after the gruesome death of a worker shone a light on the brutal exploitation of undocumented migrants. Satnam Singh, 31, who had been working without legal papers, died last week after his arm was sliced off by a machine. The farmer he was working for dumped him by the road, along with his severed limb. "He was thrown out like a dog. There is exploitation every day, we suffer it every day, it must end now," said Gurmukh Singh, head of the Indian community in the Lazio region of central Italy. "We come here to work, not to die," he told AFP. Children held up colourful signs reading "Justice for Satnam Singh" as the procession snaked through Latina, a city in a rural area south of Rome that is home to tens of thousands of Indian migrant workers. Indians have worked in the Agro Pontino -- the Pontine Marshes -- since the mid-1980s, harvesting pumpkins, leeks, beans and tomatoes, and working on flower farms or in buffalo mozzarella production. Singh's death is being investigated, but it has sparked a wider debate in Italy over how to tackle systemic abuses in the agriculture sector, where use of undocumented workers and their abuse by farmers or gangmasters is rife. "Satnam died in one day, I die every day. Because I too am a labour victim," said Parambar Singh, whose eye was seriously hurt in a work accident. "My boss said he couldn't take me to hospital because I didn't have a contract," said the 33-year-old, who has struggled to work since. "I have been waiting 10 months for justice," he said. The workers get paid an average of 20 euros ($21) a day for up to 14 hours labour, according to the Osservatorio Placido Rizzotto, which analyses working conditions in the agriculture industry. Watch: Protests in Italy after death of Indian farm labourer Satnam Singh, PM Meloni deplores tragedy × Far-right Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has sought to reduce the number of undocumented migrants to Italy, while increasing pathways for legal migration for non-EU workers to tackle labour shortages. But according to the Confagricoltura Agribusiness Association, only around 30 per cent of workers given a visa actually travel to Italy, meaning there are never enough labourers to meet farmers' needs. This month, Meloni said Italy's visa system was being exploited by organised crime groups to smuggle in illegal migrants. She condemned the circumstances of Singh's death, saying they were "inhumane acts that do not belong to the Italian people". Also read: Indian farm worker in Italy dies after employer dumps him on roadside with severed arm "I hope that this barbarism will be harshly punished," she told her cabinet ministers last week. Italy's financial police identified nearly 60,000 undocumented workers from January 2023 to June 2024. But Italy's largest trade union CGIL estimates that as many as 230,000 people -- over a quarter of the country's seasonal agricultural workers -- do not have a contract. While some are Italian, most are undocumented foreigners. Female workers fare particularly badly, earning even less than their male counterparts and in some cases suffering sexual exploitation, it says. "We all need regular job contracts, not to be trapped in this slavery," said Kaur Akveer, a 37-year-old who was part of a group of women in colourful saris marching behind the community leaders.

Indian farmers in Italy press Meloni government to end 'slavery'

<p>Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was reportedly left out of a small group of European Union leaders discussing top jobs for the three EU bodies, namely the European Union parliament, European Council and the European Commission.</p>

<p>According to a report in the Financial Times, during a private dinner late on Monday (June 17) evening, the European Union's 27 leaders discussed a potential deal to nominate Ursula von der Leyen for a second term as European Commission president, along with three other key appointments reflecting the result of European parliamentary elections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The discussions were soured after it emerged that a previous closed-door meeting between six national leaders from the EU's three largest political parties: von der Leyen's European People's Party (EPP), the Socialists &amp; Democrats and liberal Renew, was held.&nbsp;These pre-dinner discussions excluded Italy PM Giorgia Meloni's&nbsp;European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group, which finished fourth in the European Union elections earlier this month.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/eu-elections-from-trade-to-climate-key-takeaways-from-the-election-results-730730">EU Elections: From trade to climate, key takeaways from the election results</a></strong></p>

<p>Meloni then reportedly raged at French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and the prime ministers of the Netherlands, Greece and Spain for making her and others wait while they made a deal to be presented to the rest of the EU members.</p>

<p>Meloni then told reporters that "we will not accept a pre-packaged agreement".</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Melodi | Indian PM Modi's selfie with Italian PM Meloni goes viral</strong></p>

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<p>The 'Renew' grouping, led by Macron's party, has claimed the post of EU top diplomat for Estonia Prime Minister Kaja Kallas. The Renew secured third place with 80 seats in the EU parliament.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It could be contested if France's Marine Le Pen's Identity and Democracy (ID) group allies with Meloni's ECR as well as 11 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) from the party of Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban. This could make them the third-largest force in the European parliament.</p>

<p>Ahead of the EU elections, Ursula von der Leyen had courted Giorgia Meloni as well as her ECR group as potential allies to secure a parliamentary majority required to confirm the candidate appointed by the leaders.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was reportedly left out of a small group of European Union leaders discussing top jobs for the three EU bodies, namely the European Union parliament, European Council and the European Commission.

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was reportedly left out of a small group of European Union leaders discussing top jobs for the three EU bodies, namely the European Union parliament, European Council and the European Commission. According to a report in the Financial Times, during a private dinner late on Monday (June 17) evening, the European Union's 27 leaders discussed a potential deal to nominate Ursula von der Leyen for a second term as European Commission president, along with three other key appointments reflecting the result of European parliamentary elections. The discussions were soured after it emerged that a previous closed-door meeting between six national leaders from the EU's three largest political parties: von der Leyen's European People's Party (EPP), the Socialists & Democrats and liberal Renew, was held. These pre-dinner discussions excluded Italy PM Giorgia Meloni's European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group, which finished fourth in the European Union elections earlier this month. Also read | EU Elections: From trade to climate, key takeaways from the election results Meloni then reportedly raged at French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and the prime ministers of the Netherlands, Greece and Spain for making her and others wait while they made a deal to be presented to the rest of the EU members. Meloni then told reporters that "we will not accept a pre-packaged agreement". Also watch | Melodi | Indian PM Modi's selfie with Italian PM Meloni goes viral × The 'Renew' grouping, led by Macron's party, has claimed the post of EU top diplomat for Estonia Prime Minister Kaja Kallas. The Renew secured third place with 80 seats in the EU parliament. It could be contested if France's Marine Le Pen's Identity and Democracy (ID) group allies with Meloni's ECR as well as 11 Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) from the party of Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban. This could make them the third-largest force in the European parliament. Ahead of the EU elections, Ursula von der Leyen had courted Giorgia Meloni as well as her ECR group as potential allies to secure a parliamentary majority required to confirm the candidate appointed by the leaders. (With inputs from agencies)

Giorgia Meloni slams EU centrists for excluding her from top job talks; rejects 'pre-packaged' deal

<p>During his address at the G7 Outreach Session&nbsp;on Friday (June 14),&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for an end to the monopoly in technology in order to lay the foundation of an inclusive society. He also called for prioritising the Global South's concerns, particularly Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi recalled that it was a matter of honour for India that the African Union (AU) was admitted as a permanent member of the G20 under its presidency.</p>

<p>"In these efforts, we have given high priority to Africa. We are proud that the G-20, under the chairmanship of India, made the African Union a permanent member," he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Spoke at the G7 Outreach Session on AI and Energy, Africa and Mediterranean. Highlighted a wide range of subjects, notably, the wide scale usage of technology for human progress. The rise of technology in various aspects of human life has also reaffirmed the importance of cyber… <a href="https://t.co/lafxE4aJos">pic.twitter.com/lafxE4aJos</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1801654400089526428?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"India has been contributing to the economic and social development, stability and security of all the countries of Africa, and will continue to do so in the future," PM Modi added.</p>

<p>Calling for an end to the monopoly in technology, in particular on artificial intelligence, he said, "We must make technology creative, not destructive. Only then will we be able to lay the foundation of an inclusive society. India is striving for a better future through this human-centric approach."</p>

<p>He underlined that India was among the few countries that formulated a national strategy on artificial intelligence.</p>

<p>"Based on this strategy, we have launched the AI Mission this year. Its basic mantra is 'AI for All'. As a founding member and lead chair of the global partnership for AI, we are promoting cooperation among all countries," he said. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-g7-leaders-sing-happy-birthday-to-german-chancellor-olaf-scholz-731793">Watch: G7 leaders sing 'Happy Birthday' to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz</a></p>

<h2><strong>Italian PM Meloni greets Indian counterpart Modi with 'namaste'</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in the day, PM Modi was welcomed by his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni to the G7 summit which is being held in Italy's Apulia. He arrived for the summit on Thursday (June 13) late night.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> warmly welcomed by the G7 host, PM <a href="https://twitter.com/GiorgiaMeloni?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GiorgiaMeloni</a> of Italy as he arrived at Borgo Egnazia to participate in the G7 Summit. <a href="https://t.co/NTxLGYedGv">pic.twitter.com/NTxLGYedGv</a></p>
— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1801617352443715825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>PM Modi met French President Emmanuel Macron, his British counterpart Rishi Sunak and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of the G7 Summit.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


During his address at the G7 Outreach Session on Friday (June 14), Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for an end to the monopoly in technology in order to lay the foundation of an inclusive society.

During his address at the G7 Outreach Session on Friday (June 14), Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for an end to the monopoly in technology in order to lay the foundation of an inclusive society. He also called for prioritising the Global South's concerns, particularly Africa. PM Modi recalled that it was a matter of honour for India that the African Union (AU) was admitted as a permanent member of the G20 under its presidency. "In these efforts, we have given high priority to Africa. We are proud that the G-20, under the chairmanship of India, made the African Union a permanent member," he said. Spoke at the G7 Outreach Session on AI and Energy, Africa and Mediterranean. Highlighted a wide range of subjects, notably, the wide scale usage of technology for human progress. The rise of technology in various aspects of human life has also reaffirmed the importance of cyber… pic.twitter.com/lafxE4aJos — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 14, 2024 × "India has been contributing to the economic and social development, stability and security of all the countries of Africa, and will continue to do so in the future," PM Modi added. Calling for an end to the monopoly in technology, in particular on artificial intelligence, he said, "We must make technology creative, not destructive. Only then will we be able to lay the foundation of an inclusive society. India is striving for a better future through this human-centric approach." He underlined that India was among the few countries that formulated a national strategy on artificial intelligence. "Based on this strategy, we have launched the AI Mission this year. Its basic mantra is 'AI for All'. As a founding member and lead chair of the global partnership for AI, we are promoting cooperation among all countries," he said. Also read: Watch: G7 leaders sing 'Happy Birthday' to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz Italian PM Meloni greets Indian counterpart Modi with 'namaste' Earlier in the day, PM Modi was welcomed by his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni to the G7 summit which is being held in Italy's Apulia. He arrived for the summit on Thursday (June 13) late night. PM @narendramodi warmly welcomed by the G7 host, PM @GiorgiaMeloni of Italy as he arrived at Borgo Egnazia to participate in the G7 Summit. pic.twitter.com/NTxLGYedGv — Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) June 14, 2024 × PM Modi met French President Emmanuel Macron, his British counterpart Rishi Sunak and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of the G7 Summit. (With inputs from agencies)

G7 Outreach session: PM Modi calls for ending monopoly in technology

<p>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni took the internet by storm on Thursday (June 13) after her videos of greeting several leaders during the summit of Group of Seven&nbsp;(G7) with a 'Namaste' gesture went viral.</p>

<p>In the pictures and videos, she can be seen greeting President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz with folded hands.</p>

<p>Several Indian netizens expressed joy over Meloni accepting and preferring the Indian way of greeting people instead of a handshake.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Namaste at G7 Italy summit: Italian PM Meloni with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz <a href="https://t.co/OSPRq3C42U">pic.twitter.com/OSPRq3C42U</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1801244560280195233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>One of the social media users quipped, "Meloni Namaste karna sikh gayi" (Meloni learnt the Namaste gesture).</p>

<p>The netizens also expressed excitement over Meloni and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting as the cheerful friendliness between the two leaders had sparked a social media frenzy in the past as well.</p>

<p>Some netizens believed that this was "Modi's magic". A user wrote, "Eagerly waiting for Modi and Meloni to come together."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Giorgia Meloni preferring 'Namaste' over a handshake 😄 <a href="https://t.co/d3ceav0UEe">pic.twitter.com/d3ceav0UEe</a></p>
— Meme Farmer (@craziestlazy) <a href="https://twitter.com/craziestlazy/status/1801230761984765963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-to-attend-50th-g7-summit-in-italy-first-international-trip-since-re-election-731159">PM Modi to attend 50th G7 summit in Italy, first international trip since re-election</a></p>

<h2><strong>'Glad my first visit in 3rd term is to Italy', says PM Modi</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, PM Modi who left for Italy for the G7 Summit said he was glad that his first foreign visit after assuming office for the third consecutive term was to Italy.</p>

<p>"At the invitation of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, I am travelling to the Apulia region in Italy to participate in the G7 Outreach Summit on 14 June 2024. I am glad that my first visit in the third consecutive term is to Italy for the G-7 Summit," read the statement.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">At the invitation of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, I am travelling to Apulia region in Italy to participate in the G7 Outreach Summit on 14 June 2024. I am glad that my first visit in the third consecutive term is to Italy for the G-7 Summit...During the discussions at the… <a href="https://t.co/4g8dA6U0nP">pic.twitter.com/4g8dA6U0nP</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1801227720568828210?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"I am glad that my first visit in the third consecutive term is to Italy for the G-7 Summit. I warmly recall my visit to Italy for the G20 Summit in 2021. Prime Minister Meloni's two visits to India last year were instrumental in infusing momentum and depth in our bilateral agenda. We remain committed to consolidate the India-Italy strategic partnership, and bolster cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and the Mediterranean regions," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement further highlighted that the discussions at the Outreach session will focus on artificial intelligence, energy, Africa, and the Mediterranean. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni took the internet by storm on Thursday (June 13) after her videos of greeting several leaders during the summit of Group of Seven (G7) with a 'Namaste' gesture went viral.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni took the internet by storm on Thursday (June 13) after her videos of greeting several leaders during the summit of Group of Seven (G7) with a 'Namaste' gesture went viral. In the pictures and videos, she can be seen greeting President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz with folded hands. Several Indian netizens expressed joy over Meloni accepting and preferring the Indian way of greeting people instead of a handshake. Namaste at G7 Italy summit: Italian PM Meloni with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz pic.twitter.com/OSPRq3C42U — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) June 13, 2024 × One of the social media users quipped, "Meloni Namaste karna sikh gayi" (Meloni learnt the Namaste gesture). The netizens also expressed excitement over Meloni and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting as the cheerful friendliness between the two leaders had sparked a social media frenzy in the past as well. Some netizens believed that this was "Modi's magic". A user wrote, "Eagerly waiting for Modi and Meloni to come together." Giorgia Meloni preferring 'Namaste' over a handshake 😄 pic.twitter.com/d3ceav0UEe — Meme Farmer (@craziestlazy) June 13, 2024 × Also read: PM Modi to attend 50th G7 summit in Italy, first international trip since re-election 'Glad my first visit in 3rd term is to Italy', says PM Modi Meanwhile, PM Modi who left for Italy for the G7 Summit said he was glad that his first foreign visit after assuming office for the third consecutive term was to Italy. "At the invitation of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, I am travelling to the Apulia region in Italy to participate in the G7 Outreach Summit on 14 June 2024. I am glad that my first visit in the third consecutive term is to Italy for the G-7 Summit," read the statement. At the invitation of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, I am travelling to Apulia region in Italy to participate in the G7 Outreach Summit on 14 June 2024. I am glad that my first visit in the third consecutive term is to Italy for the G-7 Summit...During the discussions at the… pic.twitter.com/4g8dA6U0nP — ANI (@ANI) June 13, 2024 × "I am glad that my first visit in the third consecutive term is to Italy for the G-7 Summit. I warmly recall my visit to Italy for the G20 Summit in 2021. Prime Minister Meloni's two visits to India last year were instrumental in infusing momentum and depth in our bilateral agenda. We remain committed to consolidate the India-Italy strategic partnership, and bolster cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and the Mediterranean regions," it added. The statement further highlighted that the discussions at the Outreach session will focus on artificial intelligence, energy, Africa, and the Mediterranean. (With inputs from agencies)

G7 Summit: Italy PM Giorgia Meloni prefers Namaste over handshake, greets leaders with folded hands

<p>The 'Melodi' bond between Prime Minister Meloni of Italy and her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi has taken over post-election results development in India as the Italian leader took to social media to congratulate PM Modi for his third re-election in a row.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Congratulations to Narendra Modi on the new electoral victory and my warmest wishes for good work. Certain that we will continue to work together to strengthen the friendship that unites Italy and India and consolidate cooperation on the various issues that bind us, for the well-being of our Nations and our peoples," Giorgia Meloni wrote on X, formerly Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi won a third term in a row on June 4. But his Bharatiya Janata Party fell short by 32 seats of the majority mark of 272 seats in the Lok Sabha, the lower house of Indian parliament directly elected by people. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won 294 seats against the Congress-led INDIA bloc’s 231 seats. The Congress won 99 seats compared to 52 in 2019. The BJP won 240 seats.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Melodi | Indian PM Modi's selfie with Italian PM Meloni goes viral</strong></p>

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<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to X to thank his Italian counterpart for the wishes.</p>

<p>"Thank you for your kind wishes PM Giorgia Meloni. We remain committed to deepening India-Italy strategic partnership which is underpinned by shared values and interests. Looking forward to working together for global good," Modi wrote on X while responding to Meloni's post.</p>

<p>The bilateral relationship between&nbsp;India and Italy stands elevated to the level of strategic partnership since March 2023, with Rome's naval experience in Adriatic Sea adding to India's strategic advantage in the Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-the-bittersweet-melodi-in-india-italy-ties-during-swaraj-jaishankar-years-667672">Explained: The bittersweet 'melodi' in India-Italy ties during Swaraj-Jaishankar years</a></strong></p>

<p>Once Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance proves majority, Italy would be prime minister's first visit abroad upon taking office for a third term. Italy is hosting G7 summit this time around and New Delhi remains a regular invitee to the Group of Seven summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The 'Melodi' bond between Prime Minister Meloni of Italy and her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi has taken over post-election results development in India as the Italian leader took to social media to congratulate PM Modi for his third re-election in a row.

The 'Melodi' bond between Prime Minister Meloni of Italy and her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi has taken over post-election results development in India as the Italian leader took to social media to congratulate PM Modi for his third re-election in a row. "Congratulations to Narendra Modi on the new electoral victory and my warmest wishes for good work. Certain that we will continue to work together to strengthen the friendship that unites Italy and India and consolidate cooperation on the various issues that bind us, for the well-being of our Nations and our peoples," Giorgia Meloni wrote on X, formerly Twitter. Prime Minister Narendra Modi won a third term in a row on June 4. But his Bharatiya Janata Party fell short by 32 seats of the majority mark of 272 seats in the Lok Sabha, the lower house of Indian parliament directly elected by people. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won 294 seats against the Congress-led INDIA bloc’s 231 seats. The Congress won 99 seats compared to 52 in 2019. The BJP won 240 seats. Also watch | Melodi | Indian PM Modi's selfie with Italian PM Meloni goes viral × Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to X to thank his Italian counterpart for the wishes. "Thank you for your kind wishes PM Giorgia Meloni. We remain committed to deepening India-Italy strategic partnership which is underpinned by shared values and interests. Looking forward to working together for global good," Modi wrote on X while responding to Meloni's post. The bilateral relationship between India and Italy stands elevated to the level of strategic partnership since March 2023, with Rome's naval experience in Adriatic Sea adding to India's strategic advantage in the Indo-Pacific. Also read | Explained: The bittersweet 'melodi' in India-Italy ties during Swaraj-Jaishankar years Once Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance proves majority, Italy would be prime minister's first visit abroad upon taking office for a third term. Italy is hosting G7 summit this time around and New Delhi remains a regular invitee to the Group of Seven summit. (With inputs from agencies)

'Melodi' vibe sets off to-and-fro of congratulations for PM Modi's expected third term

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced on Sunday she will be a candidate at June's European elections in a bid to boost support for her Brothers of Italy party, though she will not take up a seat if elected.

Italy's PM Giorgia Meloni announces candidacy, to run in EU election

Italy PM Meloni announces candidacy at EU election | To represent Brothers of Italy Party

<p>Pope Francis will attend a working session on artificial intelligence at this year's Group of Seven (G7) leaders' summit that is set to take place in the month of June, said Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday (Apr 26).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The G7 leaders will hold discussions on the challenges posed by AI and ways to overcome the same.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is the first time in history that a pontiff will participate in the work of a G7," Meloni said in a video message.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She further said that Francis would join the "outreach session", dedicated to AI, for guest participants at the Group of Seven industrialised nations meeting in Puglia.</p>

<p>Calling artificial intelligence one of "the greatest anthropological challenges of our time", she said that it was "crucial to harness the best ethical and intellectual reflections being developed in this field".</p>

<p>She then expressed confidence that the pontiff's presence would "make a decisive contribution to defining a regulatory, ethical and cultural framework for artificial intelligence", appreciating the Vatican's research into the "practical application of the concept of algorethics, i.e. giving ethics to algorithms".</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/charles-to-return-to-some-public-duties-during-cancer-treatment-buckingham-palace-715466">Charles to return to some public duties during cancer treatment</a></p>

<p>"I am convinced that the presence of His Holiness will give a decisive contribution to drawing up an ethical and cultural regulatory framework to Artificial Intelligence," Meloni said.</p>

<p>Italy, which assumed the Presidency of the G7 in January 2024, okayed a bill earlier this week to lay down ground rules for the use of AI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"(It is) a technology that can generate great opportunities, but also brings enormous risks, as well as inevitably affecting global balances," Meloni said on Friday.</p>

<p>"Our commitment is to develop governance mechanisms to ensure that artificial intelligence is both human-centred and human-controlled," she added.</p>

<p>Earlier this year, the pope had cautioned against the "perverse" threats posed by AI calling for a global treaty to ensure the technology is not being misused.</p>

<p>He published a six-page message where he detailed all the dangers of this technology including disinformation and interference in elections.</p>

<p>The Group of Seven, also known as G7, brings together Italy, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pope Francis will attend a working session on artificial intelligence at this year's Group of Seven (G7) leaders' summit that is set to take place in the month of June, said Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday (Apr 26).

Pope Francis will attend a working session on artificial intelligence at this year's Group of Seven (G7) leaders' summit that is set to take place in the month of June, said Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday (Apr 26). The G7 leaders will hold discussions on the challenges posed by AI and ways to overcome the same. "This is the first time in history that a pontiff will participate in the work of a G7," Meloni said in a video message. She further said that Francis would join the "outreach session", dedicated to AI, for guest participants at the Group of Seven industrialised nations meeting in Puglia. Calling artificial intelligence one of "the greatest anthropological challenges of our time", she said that it was "crucial to harness the best ethical and intellectual reflections being developed in this field". She then expressed confidence that the pontiff's presence would "make a decisive contribution to defining a regulatory, ethical and cultural framework for artificial intelligence", appreciating the Vatican's research into the "practical application of the concept of algorethics, i.e. giving ethics to algorithms". Also read: Charles to return to some public duties during cancer treatment "I am convinced that the presence of His Holiness will give a decisive contribution to drawing up an ethical and cultural regulatory framework to Artificial Intelligence," Meloni said. Italy, which assumed the Presidency of the G7 in January 2024, okayed a bill earlier this week to lay down ground rules for the use of AI. "(It is) a technology that can generate great opportunities, but also brings enormous risks, as well as inevitably affecting global balances," Meloni said on Friday. "Our commitment is to develop governance mechanisms to ensure that artificial intelligence is both human-centred and human-controlled," she added. Earlier this year, the pope had cautioned against the "perverse" threats posed by AI calling for a global treaty to ensure the technology is not being misused. He published a six-page message where he detailed all the dangers of this technology including disinformation and interference in elections. The Group of Seven, also known as G7, brings together Italy, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. (With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis to attend AI session at G7 summit in Italy

<p>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will be fighting European Union (EU) elections slated to be held in June this year, she announced Sunday (Apr 28). However, she won’t be taking up the seat if elected. The elections will be held from June 6-9 and would be a litmus test for her 18-month-old rule. The move, Meloni says, is an effort to boost support for her Brothers of Italy party.</p>

<p>"We want to do in Europe what we did in Italy... create a majority that brings together the centre-right forces and send the left into opposition," Meloni declared at a party conference in the coastal city of Pescara to set out EU policies and launch the campaign.</p>

<h2><strong>Meloni vs EU</strong></h2>

<p>Meloni, a right-wing leader, has been a ferocious opponent&nbsp;to&nbsp;the European Union. She even called for leaving the Euro Zone in her 2022 election campaign, which had set alarm bells ringing in European capitals.</p>

<p>Following her victory and assumption of power, Meloni has followed a balanced approach, however. She has refrained from opposing the EU openly and sided with the bloc on Ukraine affairs.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiaxvynoeWFAxWCyjgGHcRXDiUQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-to-attend-ai-session-at-g7-summit-in-italy-715482" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-to-attend-ai-session-at-g7-summit-in-italy-715482&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiaxvynoeWFAxWCyjgGHcRXDiUQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Pope Francis to attend AI session at G7 summit in Italy</a></strong></p>

<p>Meloni will now be the first name on the ballot against her party name in all five constituencies up for the EU election. To assure her supporters, Meloni has said she won’t use "a single minute" of her time as prime minister to campaign.</p>

<h2><strong>Other leaders in the fray</strong></h2>

<p>Opposition Democratic Party (PD) leader Elly Schlein and Forza Italia party’s Antonio Tajani have also announced their intention to run.</p>

<p>According to recent polls, Meloni’s Brothers of Italy is the country’s most popular party with 27 per cent support. Opposition PD is on second spot, with 20 per cent support whereas the left-leaning 5-Star Movement enjoys 16 per cent support.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Italy passes contentious abortion law, Senate passes provision in Confidence Vote</strong></p>

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<p>If they are elected, all three running candidates—Meloni, Schlein and Tajani—are expected to vacate their seats to pave the way for runner-up candidates.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will be fighting European Union (EU) elections slated to be held in June this year, she announced Sunday (Apr 28). However, she won’t be taking up the seat if elected.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will be fighting European Union (EU) elections slated to be held in June this year, she announced Sunday (Apr 28). However, she won’t be taking up the seat if elected. The elections will be held from June 6-9 and would be a litmus test for her 18-month-old rule. The move, Meloni says, is an effort to boost support for her Brothers of Italy party. "We want to do in Europe what we did in Italy... create a majority that brings together the centre-right forces and send the left into opposition," Meloni declared at a party conference in the coastal city of Pescara to set out EU policies and launch the campaign. Meloni vs EU Meloni, a right-wing leader, has been a ferocious opponent to the European Union. She even called for leaving the Euro Zone in her 2022 election campaign, which had set alarm bells ringing in European capitals. Following her victory and assumption of power, Meloni has followed a balanced approach, however. She has refrained from opposing the EU openly and sided with the bloc on Ukraine affairs. Also read: Pope Francis to attend AI session at G7 summit in Italy Meloni will now be the first name on the ballot against her party name in all five constituencies up for the EU election. To assure her supporters, Meloni has said she won’t use "a single minute" of her time as prime minister to campaign. Other leaders in the fray Opposition Democratic Party (PD) leader Elly Schlein and Forza Italia party’s Antonio Tajani have also announced their intention to run. According to recent polls, Meloni’s Brothers of Italy is the country’s most popular party with 27 per cent support. Opposition PD is on second spot, with 20 per cent support whereas the left-leaning 5-Star Movement enjoys 16 per cent support. Watch: Italy passes contentious abortion law, Senate passes provision in Confidence Vote × If they are elected, all three running candidates—Meloni, Schlein and Tajani—are expected to vacate their seats to pave the way for runner-up candidates. (With inputs from agencies)

Italy’s Giorgia Meloni to contest EU election to boost support for party

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been invited by his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni to attend the G7 Summit Outreach Sessions in Italy in June this year. Watch in for more details!

Italian PM Meloni invites Indian PM Modi to attend G7 Summit in June

<p>An Italian court has approved a new defamation lawsuit filed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni against a historian who referred to her as a "neo-Nazi at heart".</p>

<p>Luciano Canfora, an 81-year-old leftist classicist, made the statement during a school debate in Bari, Italy, in April 2022, prior to Meloni assuming office following a big electoral victory by her party, Brothers of Italy. The trial is scheduled to begin on October 7.</p>

<h2><strong>Past instances</strong></h2>

<p>Previously, Meloni successfully sued journalist Roberto Saviano for slamming&nbsp;her immigration policies in December 2020, resulting in a suspended fine of $1,063.</p>

<p>She has also filed a lawsuit against the lead singer of the British rock band Placebo for calling&nbsp;her&nbsp;"racist" and "fascist" during a performance in Italy in July 2023.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/giorgia-meloni-sues-father-son-duo-aged-40-and-73-over-pornographic-deepfake-seeks-eu100000-in-damages-702610">Also read |&nbsp;Giorgia Meloni sues father-son duo over pornographic deepfake</a></p>

<p>Meloni shared a video of Canfora's remarks on Facebook, condemning them as "unacceptable" and akin to "propaganda" targeted at young students.</p>

<p>In anticipation of the court hearing in Bari, Canfora, a former professor renowned in Italy for his expertise in Greek and Latin philology, remained steadfast in his position. He explained that by using the term "neo-Nazi," he intended to evoke certain ideological tendencies rather than directly accusing Meloni of criminal actions.</p>

<p>Canfora pointed to Meloni's own words in her autobiography, where she acknowledged aligning herself with post-war far-right figures like Giorgio Almirante, a co-founder of the now-defunct Italian Social Movement (MSI) and a supporter of Benito Mussolini's Fascist regime.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Artificial intelligence to be key G7 issue for Italy: Giorgia Meloni</strong></p>

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<p>Despite this, Meloni stated upon assuming office that she never supported undemocratic regimes, including Fascism.</p>

<p>Many&nbsp;Italian and foreign intellectuals have rallied behind Canfora, with publications like the French newspaper Liberation organising a petition in his support.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An Italian court has approved a new defamation lawsuit filed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni against a historian who referred to her as a "neo-Nazi at heart". Luciano Canfora, an 81-year-old leftist classicist, made the statement during a school debate in Bari, Italy, in April 2022, prior to Meloni assuming office following a big electoral victory by her party, Brothers of Italy.

An Italian court has approved a new defamation lawsuit filed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni against a historian who referred to her as a "neo-Nazi at heart". Luciano Canfora, an 81-year-old leftist classicist, made the statement during a school debate in Bari, Italy, in April 2022, prior to Meloni assuming office following a big electoral victory by her party, Brothers of Italy. The trial is scheduled to begin on October 7. Past instances Previously, Meloni successfully sued journalist Roberto Saviano for slamming her immigration policies in December 2020, resulting in a suspended fine of $1,063. She has also filed a lawsuit against the lead singer of the British rock band Placebo for calling her "racist" and "fascist" during a performance in Italy in July 2023. Also read | Giorgia Meloni sues father-son duo over pornographic deepfake Meloni shared a video of Canfora's remarks on Facebook, condemning them as "unacceptable" and akin to "propaganda" targeted at young students. In anticipation of the court hearing in Bari, Canfora, a former professor renowned in Italy for his expertise in Greek and Latin philology, remained steadfast in his position. He explained that by using the term "neo-Nazi," he intended to evoke certain ideological tendencies rather than directly accusing Meloni of criminal actions. Canfora pointed to Meloni's own words in her autobiography, where she acknowledged aligning herself with post-war far-right figures like Giorgio Almirante, a co-founder of the now-defunct Italian Social Movement (MSI) and a supporter of Benito Mussolini's Fascist regime. Also watch | Artificial intelligence to be key G7 issue for Italy: Giorgia Meloni Despite this, Meloni stated upon assuming office that she never supported undemocratic regimes, including Fascism. Many Italian and foreign intellectuals have rallied behind Canfora, with publications like the French newspaper Liberation organising a petition in his support. (With inputs from agencies)

Italy PM Giorgia Meloni sues historian for calling her ‘neo-Nazi at heart’

<p>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has voiced her opposition to surrogacy, saying it is an “inhuman” practice and should attract steeper penalties. This comes as her Brothers of Italy party introduces a bill to hike fines for surrogate parents from €600,000 to €1 million ($640,290 to $1,067,150) and increase jail terms from three months to two years.</p>

<p>Speaking Friday (Apr 12) at a conference ‘For a Young Europe: Demographic Transition, Environment, Future’ in Rome, Meloni said, “I continue to believe that surrogacy is an inhuman practice.”</p>

<p>“I support the bill that makes it a universal crime,” she added.</p>

<p>Her views about surrogacy are in line with views held by the Catholic Church. The church maintains that the practice violates the integrity of the child and the woman, who “becomes a mere means subservient to the arbitrary gain or desire of others.”</p>

<h2><strong>Move seen against LGBTQ+ communities</strong></h2>

<p>The move against surrogacy is seen as an attack on the rights of LGBTQ+ in Italy. The country, ruled by the right-wing PM, does not allow gay couples to be “married”, following principles of the Catholic Church.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Artificial intelligence to be key G7 issue for Italy: Giorgia Meloni</strong></p>

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<p>Meloni has also mandated the birth certificates to clearly mention “mother” and “father” rather than “parent 1” and “parent 2.” In 2023, her party led the efforts to remove the names of lesbian mothers from birth certificates.</p>

<h2><strong>Italy ‘working’ on improving birth rates</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking at the Friday conference, PM Meloni vowed to improve the country’s declining birth rates, by making women-friendly policies.</p>

<p>She said her government would make it easier for working women to find adequate child care and other support.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiPqo_-37-FAxV1-DgGHaDdCJ8QxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italys-giorgia-meloni-indias-nirmala-sitharaman-listed-among-worlds-most-powerful-women-666832" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/italys-giorgia-meloni-indias-nirmala-sitharaman-listed-among-worlds-most-powerful-women-666832&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiPqo_-37-FAxV1-DgGHaDdCJ8QxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">Italy`s Giorgia Meloni, India`s Nirmala Sitharaman listed among world`s most powerful women</a></strong></p>

<p>“The demographic challenge, and the economic sustainability to which it is connected, is one of the main challenges for us,” she said. “There is no point in managing the present, if the future is not secure,” Meloni added.</p>

<p>To support larger families, Meloni has already announced tax cuts on baby formula and diapers. Additionally, the government is also planning public spending increases to support families, including baby bonuses and tax breaks for families with children.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has voiced her opposition to surrogacy, saying it is an “inhuman” practice and should attract steeper penalties. This comes as her Brothers of Italy party introduces a bill to hike fines for surrogate parents from €600,000 to €1 million ($640,290 to $1,067,150) and increase jail terms from three months to two years.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has voiced her opposition to surrogacy, saying it is an “inhuman” practice and should attract steeper penalties. This comes as her Brothers of Italy party introduces a bill to hike fines for surrogate parents from €600,000 to €1 million ($640,290 to $1,067,150) and increase jail terms from three months to two years. Speaking Friday (Apr 12) at a conference ‘For a Young Europe: Demographic Transition, Environment, Future’ in Rome, Meloni said, “I continue to believe that surrogacy is an inhuman practice.” “I support the bill that makes it a universal crime,” she added. Her views about surrogacy are in line with views held by the Catholic Church. The church maintains that the practice violates the integrity of the child and the woman, who “becomes a mere means subservient to the arbitrary gain or desire of others.” Move seen against LGBTQ+ communities The move against surrogacy is seen as an attack on the rights of LGBTQ+ in Italy. The country, ruled by the right-wing PM, does not allow gay couples to be “married”, following principles of the Catholic Church. Watch: Artificial intelligence to be key G7 issue for Italy: Giorgia Meloni × Meloni has also mandated the birth certificates to clearly mention “mother” and “father” rather than “parent 1” and “parent 2.” In 2023, her party led the efforts to remove the names of lesbian mothers from birth certificates. Italy ‘working’ on improving birth rates Speaking at the Friday conference, PM Meloni vowed to improve the country’s declining birth rates, by making women-friendly policies. She said her government would make it easier for working women to find adequate child care and other support. Also read: Italy`s Giorgia Meloni, India`s Nirmala Sitharaman listed among world`s most powerful women “The demographic challenge, and the economic sustainability to which it is connected, is one of the main challenges for us,” she said. “There is no point in managing the present, if the future is not secure,” Meloni added. To support larger families, Meloni has already announced tax cuts on baby formula and diapers. Additionally, the government is also planning public spending increases to support families, including baby bonuses and tax breaks for families with children. (With inputs from agencies)

Italian PM Giorgia Meloni vows to crack down surrogacy, calls it ‘inhuman’ practice

Italy PM Giorgia Meloni is seeking 100,000 euros in damages over deepfake videos. Pornographic deepfake videos of Meloni were made and uploaded online. She wants to donate the compensation to support victims of male violence. WION's Molly Gambhir tells you more!

Giorgia Meloni seeking 100,000 euros in damages over deepfake videos

<p>Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who became the most popular foreign dignitary on social media in India in recent months, has initiated stern action against the misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) through deepfake technology. The 'Brothers of Italy' co-founder is seeking €100,000 ($109,000) in damages for a pornographic video that has been viewed millions of times on US pornographic sites.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The deepfake video first surfaced online back in 2022 when she was appointed as Prime Minister of Italy.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-the-bittersweet-melodi-in-india-italy-ties-during-swaraj-jaishankar-years-667672">Explained: The bittersweet 'melodi' in India-Italy ties during Swaraj-Jaishankar years</a></strong></p>

<p>According to reports, PM Meloni will appear in court in Sassari, Sardinia, about 800 km across Rome through the Tyrrhenian Sea on July 2 to testify against the defendants.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Giorgia Meloni deepfake video: Man, 40, his 73-year-old father implicated</strong></h2>

<p>A man, 40, has been accused of using Prime Minister Meloni's face to create a sexually explicit video using the deepfake technology. His 73-year-old father too has been implicated in the massive probe.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Melodi | Indian PM Modi's selfie with Italian PM Meloni goes viral</strong></p>

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<p>But they both could be out of prison between 6 months to 3 years, the maximum punishment for charges of defamation in Italy.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s lawyer, Maria Giulia Marongiu said that the money was "symbolic" and the compensation is meant to "send a message to women who are victims of this kind of abuse of power not to be afraid to press charges."</p>

<h2><strong>What is a deepfake video?</strong></h2>

<p>A deepfake video is a fake video in which the face of a person,&nbsp;using Artificial Intelligence, is imposed&nbsp;over someone else's face. Indian actors Rashmika Mandanna, Amitabh Bachchan, and Alia Bhatt's deepfake videos went viral on the internet and resulted in the government acting fast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This artificial intelligence technology is also being used to extort money from people in India.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-italy-move-forward-in-melodi-era-with-approval-of-key-migration-and-mobility-pact-674079">India-Italy move forward in ‘Melodi’ era with approval of key migration and mobility pact</a></strong></p>

<p>The deepfake technology has emerged as a major cause of concern as the world continues to move forward in 2024, the biggest year of elections in human history where the role of information dissemination influences the outcomes of voting.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who became the most popular foreign dignitary on social media in India in recent months, has initiated stern action against the misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) through deepfake technology.

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who became the most popular foreign dignitary on social media in India in recent months, has initiated stern action against the misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) through deepfake technology. The 'Brothers of Italy' co-founder is seeking €100,000 ($109,000) in damages for a pornographic video that has been viewed millions of times on US pornographic sites. The deepfake video first surfaced online back in 2022 when she was appointed as Prime Minister of Italy. Also read | Explained: The bittersweet 'melodi' in India-Italy ties during Swaraj-Jaishankar years According to reports, PM Meloni will appear in court in Sassari, Sardinia, about 800 km across Rome through the Tyrrhenian Sea on July 2 to testify against the defendants. Giorgia Meloni deepfake video: Man, 40, his 73-year-old father implicated A man, 40, has been accused of using Prime Minister Meloni's face to create a sexually explicit video using the deepfake technology. His 73-year-old father too has been implicated in the massive probe. Also watch | Melodi | Indian PM Modi's selfie with Italian PM Meloni goes viral × But they both could be out of prison between 6 months to 3 years, the maximum punishment for charges of defamation in Italy. What does it mean? Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s lawyer, Maria Giulia Marongiu said that the money was "symbolic" and the compensation is meant to "send a message to women who are victims of this kind of abuse of power not to be afraid to press charges." What is a deepfake video? A deepfake video is a fake video in which the face of a person, using Artificial Intelligence, is imposed over someone else's face. Indian actors Rashmika Mandanna, Amitabh Bachchan, and Alia Bhatt's deepfake videos went viral on the internet and resulted in the government acting fast. This artificial intelligence technology is also being used to extort money from people in India. Also read | India-Italy move forward in ‘Melodi’ era with approval of key migration and mobility pact The deepfake technology has emerged as a major cause of concern as the world continues to move forward in 2024, the biggest year of elections in human history where the role of information dissemination influences the outcomes of voting. (With inputs from agencies)

Giorgia Meloni sues father-son duo over pornographic deepfake

<p>An Italian couple and their son, who were kidnapped in Mali in May 2022, have been freed and were due to return to Rome on Tuesday, the Italian government said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rocco Langone, Maria Donata Caivano and their son, Giovanni Langone, had been seized from their home outside the southeastern Malian city of Koutiala by a "jihadist faction", it said in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-ex-fm-qin-gang-missing-from-public-view-since-months-resigns-as-lawmaker-694452">China’s ex-FM Qin Gang, missing from public view since months, resigns as lawmaker</a></strong></p>

<p>Tuesday's statement did not address the fate of a Togolese citizen seized along with the family.</p>

<p>The couple, in their 60s, and son in his 40s had lived outside Koutiala for several years in a Jehovah's Witness community.</p>

<p>"I would like to express my heartfelt congratulations on the release of our three compatriots kidnapped in Mali in 2022," Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Her office said that despite the long captivity the family was "in good health".</p>

<p>It provided no details of their release.</p>

<p>The area where the family lived was "particularly infiltrated by jihadist militiamen", the government said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-parliament-passes-controversial-nature-law-despite-political-backlash-farmers-protest-694470">EU parliament passes controversial nature law despite political backlash, farmers’ protest</a></strong></p>

<p>Meloni's office blamed the kidnapping on a faction linked to the Group to Support Islam and Muslims (JNIM), which is affiliated to Al-Qaeda.</p>

<p>The Sahel has been ravaged by a jihadist campaign that began in northern Mali in 2012, sweeping over into neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger in 2015.</p>

<p>Mali has been ravaged by different groups affiliated to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, as well as by self-declared self-defence forces and bandits.</p>


An Italian couple and their son, who were kidnapped in Mali in May 2022, have been freed and were due to return to Rome on Tuesday, the Italian government said. Rocco Langone, Maria Donata Caivano and their son, Giovanni Langone, had been seized from their home outside the southeastern Malian city of Koutiala by a "jihadist faction", it said in a statement.

An Italian couple and their son, who were kidnapped in Mali in May 2022, have been freed and were due to return to Rome on Tuesday, the Italian government said. Rocco Langone, Maria Donata Caivano and their son, Giovanni Langone, had been seized from their home outside the southeastern Malian city of Koutiala by a "jihadist faction", it said in a statement. Also Read | China’s ex-FM Qin Gang, missing from public view since months, resigns as lawmaker Tuesday's statement did not address the fate of a Togolese citizen seized along with the family. The couple, in their 60s, and son in his 40s had lived outside Koutiala for several years in a Jehovah's Witness community. "I would like to express my heartfelt congratulations on the release of our three compatriots kidnapped in Mali in 2022," Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said in a statement. Her office said that despite the long captivity the family was "in good health". It provided no details of their release. The area where the family lived was "particularly infiltrated by jihadist militiamen", the government said. Also Read | EU parliament passes controversial nature law despite political backlash, farmers’ protest Meloni's office blamed the kidnapping on a faction linked to the Group to Support Islam and Muslims (JNIM), which is affiliated to Al-Qaeda. The Sahel has been ravaged by a jihadist campaign that began in northern Mali in 2012, sweeping over into neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger in 2015. Mali has been ravaged by different groups affiliated to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, as well as by self-declared self-defence forces and bandits.

Italian family returns home two years after being kidnapped in Mali

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