Germany, under Friedrich Merz, is moving to position itself as a leading force in EU foreign policy, defense coordination, and a more unified transatlantic response, while Italy’s Giorgia Meloni complements or challenges that dynamic within the EU framework.

The coverage highlights a shifting EU internal balance, with Germany’s tougher stance on Ukraine and security paired with Meloni’s leadership shaping a new European power balance amid tensions with the U.S.

Germany and Italy aim to seal a summit-level agreement to cut barriers in services, energy, capital markets, and digital sectors, with projected growth of about 2-3% for their economies and potentially higher gains for some member states.

Germany and Italy are conducting government consultations in Rome on economy, defense, and migration policy, led by Merz and Meloni with ten ministers."

Overall, the discussions focus on strengthening economic ties, reducing barriers, and coordinating approaches to migration and defense within the EU framework.

Meloni’s leadership has enhanced Italy’s leverage in EU talks, including support for the EU-Mercosur trade deal despite French opposition.

Merz and Meloni are framed as a new EU ‘power couple’ steering transatlantic policy, with Merz pushing a strong European stance and Meloni balancing skepticism toward certain Franco-German or EU approaches.

A planned statement will deepen defense cooperation between the two countries, continuing an effort to elevate collaboration initiated by the previous government.

There is a strategic divergence between France and Germany on how to respond to Trump, with Merz favoring a measured line and Macron adopting a tougher stance.

Italy’s exposure to Trump’s tariff threats is relatively smaller than Germany’s, illustrating differing vulnerabilities within the EU.

Both Merz and Meloni share a favorable view of engaging with the U.S. and seek to reduce illegal migration while boosting economic competitiveness.

Leaders emphasize resuming dialogue with the U.S. to prevent any escalation that could undermine European competitiveness and global trade.