Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni did not appear pleased when French President Emmanuel Macron approached her for a handshake during the G-7 summit in Italy. A video capturing the moment went viral, showing Meloni giving Macron a cold look before reluctantly shaking his hand.
The tension between the two leaders stemmed from a disagreement over the use of the word “abortion” in the G-7 statement. Meloni’s government had pushed to remove references to abortion, resulting in the final statement mentioning the promotion of “reproductive health and rights” instead.
Macron expressed his regret over the decision, stating that not everyone shared the same views on the issue. Despite the apparent conflict, Meloni downplayed the incident, stating that it had been blown out of proportion.
As Italy’s first female Prime Minister, Meloni has focused on encouraging women to have children to address the country’s declining birth rate. While she has pledged not to overturn Italy’s abortion law, she remains committed to promoting traditional family values.
The exchange between Meloni and Macron at the G-7 summit highlights the ongoing debates surrounding reproductive rights and political differences among world leaders. It serves as a reminder of the complex issues that continue to shape international relations and domestic policies.
In a statement to Fox News Digital, Meloni’s office did not provide further comment on the incident. The Associated Press contributed to this report, shedding light on the diplomatic tensions that unfolded during the summit. The interaction between Meloni and Macron offers insights into the diverse perspectives and challenges faced by global leaders in addressing sensitive topics like abortion and family policies.
Overall, the incident underscores the importance of respectful dialogue and cooperation among nations, even in the face of disagreements. As leaders navigate complex issues on the world stage, finding common ground while respecting differing viewpoints remains crucial for fostering productive relationships and addressing shared challenges.