ROME – Newly instated Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni held an informal meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday in an effort to improve Italian-French relations.

 In a private hour-long discussion aimed at strengthening the shaky relationship between their countries, the leaders shared opinions on the war in Ukraine, sanctions and the energy crisis.

 After the one-to-one came to an end, Meloni stated simply “We understand each other”.  Macron tweeted: “With Italy we must continue the task we have undertaken”.

 Ties between Italy and France have been frayed since the French minister of European Affairs, Laurence Boone, promised “to be vigilant on the respect of rights” regarding Italy shortly after the September elections that won Meloni a majority.  The Brothers of Italy leader then responded fiercely, claiming that Boone’s comments constituted “an unacceptable threat of interference against a sovereign, EU member-state”.

 Following the meeting on Sunday evening, however, Meloni and Macron appear to be on the same page, although it could be said that the connections between the two countries are currently pragmatic rather than warm.  The French head of state expressed a desire “to succeed together, through dialogue and ambition,” and the Chigi Palace described a “productive and cordial meeting”.

 Macron will also meet Italian President Sergio Mattarella on Monday.