Meloni addresses Lebanon and drug issues at the UN

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who is in New York for the 79th United Nations (UN) General Assembly, answered questions from Italian journalists regarding current issues during her contacts. Evaluating the latest developments in Lebanon, Meloni said, "The biggest challenge regarding Lebanon is to somehow reach a ceasefire and de-escalate the tension. Israel has the right to defend itself, but a full-scale war would benefit no one."

Meloni emphasized that focus must be placed on the safety of the approximately 1,000 Italian soldiers serving in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mission. She also stated that once the current situation ends, Italian soldiers could play an important role there.

Stating that there is no change in Italy's stance on supporting Ukraine, Meloni expressed her optimism regarding investments in Italy after holding meetings with leaders of major technology firms during her contacts in New York.

Furthermore, at the global coalition meeting on combating synthetic drugs organized by US President Joe Biden, Meloni delivered a strong message, stating, "We are against all types of drugs; drugs ruin people's lives and we must do our best to fight them."

As part of her contacts in New York, Prime Minister Meloni was also awarded the 2024 Global Citizen Award by the Washington-based think tank Atlantic Council. She received her award from businessman Elon Musk.