Meloni was accompanied by Palazzo Chigi’s diplomatic advisor, Fabrizio Saggio, and by Italy’s Ambassador to Washington, Mariagnela Zappia, who was seated with other foreign diplomats.

The prime minister’s chief personal secretary Patrizia Scurti was also part of the delegation.

Giorgia Meloni said Monday she was attending Donald Trump’s second inauguration as US president in order to boost ties with America in the face of global challenges.

“I think it is extremely important for a nation like Italy, which has extremely solid relations with the United States, to give evidence of the will to continue and, if anything, strengthen that relationship at a time when the challenges are global and interconnected,” she said.

Her comments sought to explain the meaning of her presence at Trump’s swearing-in before participating in a religious service with him before the inauguration in the church of St John in Washington DC.

Meanwhile, Pope Francis, through a pontifical message, called on Donald Trump to promote peace and work for a society without hatred, discrimination and exclusion.

“On the occasion of your inauguration as the forty-seventh President of the United States of America, I offer cordial greetings and the assurance of my prayers that Almighty God will grant you wisdom, strength and protection in the exercise of your high duties,” read the message.

“Inspired by your nation’s ideals of being a land of opportunity and welcome for all, it is my hope that under your leadership the American people will prosper and always strive to build a more just society, where there is no room for hatred, discrimination or exclusion.

“At the same time, as our human family faces numerous challenges, not to mention the scourge of war, I also ask God to guide your efforts in promoting peace and reconciliation among peoples.

“With these sentiments, I invoke upon you, your family, and the beloved American people an abundance of divine blessings.”

ANSA