Biden, Von der Leyen say they look forward to working with Meloni

(ANSA) - ROME, OCT 22 - United States President Joe Biden and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen both congratulated new Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni after her government was sworn in on Saturday and said they looked forward to working with her.
    "I congratulate Giorgia Meloni on becoming the new Prime Minister of Italy," Biden said in a message released by the White House.
    "Italy is a vital NATO Ally and close partner as our nations together address shared global challenges.
    "As leaders in the G7, I look forward to continuing to advance our support for Ukraine, hold Russia accountable for its aggression, ensure respect for human rights and democratic values, and build sustainable economic growth".
    Von der Leyen stressed the importance of Meloni being "the first woman to hold the post" of Italian premier in a Twitter post.
    "I count on and look forward to constructive cooperation with the new government on the challenges we face together," she said.
    European Council President Charles Michel also congratulated the Brothers of Italy (FdI) leader. "Let's work together for the benefit of Italy ���� and the EU ����," Michel tweeted. "I await you at the European Council to work together for the good of the European Union #EUCO," he added, writing the last line in Italian. In her congratulatory message, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola stressed that Europe was facing "enormous challenges. "Let's help our citizens and support Ukraine, remaining united and determined," she added. "Europe needs Italy. Together we will overcome every difficulty".
    (ANSA).