Invited on Meloni’s request, Musk praises Italy PM as ‘someone who is even more beautiful…’ 

At the Atlantic Council’s prestigious gala dinner in New York, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was honoured with a Global Citizens Award, and her controversial invitation of tech billionaire Elon Musk to introduce her has ignited discussions.  

The event, part of the United Nations General Assembly’s (UNGA) annual gathering of world leaders, showcased Musk’s enthusiastic support for Meloni, whom he described as “someone who is even more beautiful on the inside than she is on the outside” and “authentic, honest and thoughtful.”

Musk, known for his provocative stance on various issues and support for Donald Trump, delivered a glowing introduction at the Ziegfried Ballroom, eliciting laughter when he remarked, “That can’t always be said about politicians."    

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His comments were met with applause, despite the dissent expressed by some Atlantic Council staff regarding his presence.

In response, Meloni praised Musk as a “precious genius,” underscoring their shared interests, including declining birth rates in the West and the potential of artificial intelligence.  

Their previous meetings have included discussions at her official residence in Rome and his participation in events hosted by her far-right Brothers of Italy party.

During her 15-minute acceptance speech, Meloni outlined her vision for Western conservatism, stressing on patriotism as a counter to the perceived decline of the West. “Defending our deep roots is the precondition for reaping ripe fruit,” she stated, challenging the notion of an inevitable decline.

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Amid a week focused on multilateralism, Meloni chose to highlight nationalism, asserting that the West is “a civilisation built over the centuries.”  

She declared, “Our freedom and our values and the pride we feel for them are the weapons our adversaries fear the most,” referencing Conservative philosophers such as Roger Scruton.

Speaking in English to an audience of over 600, Meloni’s address captivated attendees, culminating in a standing ovation from Musk, who was seated beside his mother, Maye Musk.

It seems Meloni’s alignment with Musk may position her as a crucial interlocutor with the Republican candidate should he win the upcoming US presidential election. While she has not endorsed any candidates, her alliance with Musk enhances her visibility in the US political landscape.