In a powerful gesture of transatlantic diplomacy, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hosted US Vice President J.D. Vance and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Rome on Sunday for informal trilateral talks.

The high-level meeting was held on the sidelines of the historic inaugural mass of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope. The talks focused on pressing global issues including trade, defense, and geopolitical security.

Prime Minister Meloni welcomed the leaders, emphasizing the importance of unity between the US and Europe. “There are many challenges ahead, but today is about building bridges. Our transatlantic partnership must remain strong and strategic,” she stated.

Although trade negotiations are led by the European Commission, Meloni reiterated Italy’s role as a facilitator of open dialogue. She has previously hosted former US President Donald Trump and was a key supporter of his re-election.

US Vice President J.D. Vance praised Italy’s leadership and the solemnity of the papal event. “Despite our trade disagreements, this meeting shows our commitment to long-term cooperation,” Vance said, reaffirming the US’s bond with both Italy and the EU.

Ursula von der Leyen highlighted the strength of existing US-EU economic ties, worth over $1.5 trillion annually. She acknowledged the complexity of negotiations, but voiced optimism for a balanced deal.

She also addressed the war in Ukraine and Europe’s defense readiness, emphasizing that stronger EU defense capabilities would also strengthen NATO. “We must maintain momentum toward peace in Ukraine,” she said.

The symbolism of the meeting — occurring during the enthronement of the first American pope — was not lost on observers, underscoring a fusion of spiritual tradition and geopolitical reset.

Separately, Vice President Vance met briefly with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Rome, a meeting echoing the historic Trump-Zelensky encounter during Pope Francis’s funeral.

Prime Minister Meloni concluded, “This is just the beginning — and we hope it won’t be the last.”