“On behalf of myself and the Italian Government, the most sincere congratulations to the President-elect of the United States, Donald #Trump,” Meloni posted. “Italy and the United States are ‘sister’ nations, linked by an unshakable alliance, common values ​​and a historic friendship.”

Like Trump, Meloni is a right-wing politician. Also, like Trump, Meloni has been falsely accused of embracing extreme, far-right political ideology and being a fascist. She has previously been called a neo-Nazi, a fascist, a far-right extremist, and a Benito Mussolini enthusiast, among others. She ran on a platform of anti-illegal immigration, strong support for the nuclear family, and a rejection of left-wing political ideals such as radical gender ideology, among others.

Italian President Sergio Mattarella also congratulated Trump on his victory. In his message, Mattarella expressed his desire to continue a successful and mutually beneficial relationship between the two countries. 

“Our countries are united by inseparable bonds of friendship and cooperation, cemented by the sharing of democratic values and by common adherence to an international order based on rules,” Mattarella said.

“These bonds, which include the essential Euro-Atlantic dimension, are of vital importance, even more so in the current international situation marked by conflicts and hotspots of instability,” Mattarella added. “On behalf of the Italian Republic I wish you the best for your personal well-being and prosperity for our friends, the American people.”

Matteo Salvini, Italy’s deputy prime minister, shared Meloni’s congratulatory sentiments with a post of his own. His message featured a collage of photographs of Trump featuring pictures of the former president working at McDonald’s, after his first assassination attempt, giving a speech at a rally, and wearing the vest he wore while driving a garbage truck. 

“Patriotism, border control, tax cuts, Christian roots, freedom of speech, commitment to world peace,” Salvini posted. “Common sense, passion, and hope WIN in the US! What a historic day!”

Meloni also saw positives in the future with the president-elect, predicting an even stronger relationship between Italy and the United States.

“It is a strategic bond, which I am sure we will now strengthen even further,” Meloni posted. “Good job President @realDonaldTrump.”