Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre met with his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni today in Rome, marking a key moment of dialogue between Norway and Italy amid growing economic and geopolitical concerns across Europe and beyond.
Bilateral ties, Ukraine, and trade tensions top the agenda
Speaking to Norwegian broadcaster NRK, Støre described the meeting as “thorough and good,” highlighting that the leaders discussed the state of Norway–Italy relations, the ongoing war in Ukraine, the deteriorating situation in the Middle East, and the escalating trade tensions between the EU and the United States.
“We want no conflict between the USA and Europe,” Støre said. “European countries are aligned on this. The USA should negotiate towards zero tariffs.”
Støre underscored that Italian Prime Minister Meloni shared this view, stating that “the current climate, marked by conflict, is unfortunate.”
The two leaders appeared united in seeking de-escalation of the transatlantic tariff dispute, which has raised concern across several European capitals. The so-called “customs war” with the USA has prompted fears of economic fragmentation, just as the EU attempts to navigate complex security and energy transitions.
The meeting in Rome comes ahead of Meloni’s visit to Washington D.C. later this week, where she is scheduled to meet with USA President Donald Trump. Meloni’s efforts to position Italy as a bridge between Washington and Brussels were echoed in her conversation with Støre, according to the Norwegian Prime Minister.
Italian trade delegation to visit Tromsø
Støre also announced that Italy’s Minister for Enterprise and Made in Italy will be visiting Tromsø in a few weeks. The visit is expected to strengthen economic cooperation in sectors such as green energy, Arctic research, and maritime industries, which are central to both countries’ strategic interests.
The upcoming visit reflects a growing Italian interest in northern European partnerships, particularly within the framework of sustainable innovation and climate resilience.
Strengthening Nordic-Mediterranean cooperation
Støre’s Rome trip comes at a time when Nordic–Mediterranean cooperation is gaining relevance amid shared challenges—ranging from energy security to migration and defense.
By reinforcing diplomatic dialogue with Italy, a key EU and G7 member, Norway aims to position itself as a proactive partner in shaping Europe’s geopolitical and economic future.
