Trump, Italy’s Conte cement populist front
WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump traded smiles, handshakes and compliments with Italy’s populist leader Giuseppe Conte Monday, as the two rightists presented a united front on everything from Russia to immigration.
Trump welcomed the novice prime minister to the White House with outstretched arms, hailing him as a kindred spirit — a fellow political outsider with an admirably tough line on immigration.
“We got along very well right from the beginning,” said Trump, lavishing praise on the 53-year-old Conte.
“I applaud the prime minister for his bold leadership, truly bold, and I hope more follow this example, including leaders in Europe.”
After years of Italy living in the political shadow of its larger European neighbours, Conte seized on a White House visit to boost his country’s profi le — and his own. Describing the ‘special invitation’ from Trump as a great tribute to Italy and himself, Conte said Rome now wanted to become a ‘ privileged interlocutor’ of the US. In return, the Italian leader seemed ready and eager to provide
I applaud the prime minister for his bold leadership, truly bold, and I hope more follow this example, including leaders in Europe.
political cover for Trump, who is struggling to smother multiple crises at home ahead of crunch November mid-term elections.
A recent Economist/ YouGov poll showed a scant 40 per cent of American voters approve of how Trump handles foreign policy.
The controversial 72-year- old Trump has been pilloried by Democrats and Republicans alike for his cozy relationship with Russian strongman Vladimir Putin and his rows with allies at recent summits.
The suave Italian painted those summit talks as ‘ fruitful’, insisted there must be dialogue with Russia, expressed “envy” at the US economy under Trump and praised his host as a ‘great negotiator’. — AFP
Donald Trump, US President