Italy Cancels Miami Business Forum Due to Trump's Chatter Saying PM Meloni Begged for a Photo Together

JAKARTA - The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) announced the cancellation of the Italian-US business forum in Miami after US President Donald Trump commented on Italian Prime Minister (PM) Giorgia Meloni.

Previously, Meloni dismissed Trump's claim that Meloni had "begged" to take a photo with him at the G7 meeting. Meloni said it was something that was completely made up.

The prime minister was surprised by the comment and rebuked Trump for behaving that way towards his allies.

After Trump's statement, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani canceled his trip to the US, which was scheduled for June 21-22. The senior Italian diplomat stressed that Trump's statement not only offended Meloni, but also the whole of Italy.

"Following the cancellation of Minister Tajani's visit to the US, we announce that the business and scientific forum scheduled for Monday (22/6) in Miami will not be implemented. The forum is planned as part of the political program of the minister's visit," the Italian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

Italian media had previously reported that Trump and Meloni met in Evian to ease tensions that have emerged in recent months over differences of opinion on Iran.

Observers noted a good interaction between the two leaders, in which Meloni told Trump they "always have been friends".