rki.news | Source: Anadolu Agency
Rome: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni confirmed that Italy will participate as an observer in US President Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace” initiative, describing it as a constructive step toward addressing the Middle East crisis and promoting wider international cooperation.
In an interview with Italian daily Corriere della Sera, Meloni said Rome had accepted an invitation to attend in observer status, noting that constitutional limits prevent full membership but do not preclude political support. She emphasized that the Middle East remains a priority for Italy, reflected in its active diplomatic engagement and consultations with European partners.
Meloni added that Italy’s level of representation at the Board’s first leaders’ meeting on February 19 in Washington has yet to be finalized. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, currently engaged in EU discussions on Gaza, could represent Rome, according to local media reports.
The Board of Peace, launched on January 22 by 19 countries on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, seeks to advance peacemaking efforts, including a settlement framework for Gaza. Washington has indicated that additional states have since joined.
Meloni also called for stronger EU-US coordination, urging Europe to enhance its security role within NATO while maintaining transatlantic unity despite political differences.