A warm diplomatic encounter in Tokyo suggests Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni may have forged a significant new political friendship, potentially rivalling her noted closeness with former US President Donald Trump.
A Birthday Celebration in Tokyo
The Italian leader, who turned 49 on Thursday, was treated to a personal celebration by Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Friday, 16 January 2026. During Meloni's official visit, Takaichi led an Italian rendition of 'Happy Birthday', presented a cake with candles, and gifted earrings to the 'stylish' Ms Meloni.
Gifts from Hello Kitty maker Sanrio were also given for Meloni's young daughter. The leaders later shared a long hug as they said goodbye, with video capturing Meloni telling Takaichi: 'Count always on me, okay? For whatever you need. I know it's not easy but we'll do it together.'
The Anime Selfie and Shared Political Ground
The pair snapped a selfie together, which Meloni later posted on her X account alongside an anime-style version of the image. The caption read: 'Two distant nations, but ever closer. Friendship and harmony.' This gesture highlighted a modern, personal touch to their diplomatic rapport.
The meeting held historical significance as both are conservative trailblazers. Sanae Takaichi, 64, became Japan's first female prime minister in October 2025, echoing Meloni's own achievement as Italy's first woman premier in 2022. Both leaders had working-class upbringings and share political inspirations; Takaichi has previously cited former UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher as an influence.
From 'Strategic' to 'Special Strategic' Partners
Beyond the birthday festivities, the talks focused on strengthening bilateral ties. The leaders confirmed they would elevate the Japan-Italy relationship from a 'strategic partnership' to a 'special strategic partnership'. They pledged to deepen cooperation in key areas including:
- Security and defence
- Economic collaboration
- Science and technology
Prime Minister Takaichi announced the upgrade on X, stating the nations would 'aim for even greater heights'.
Meloni's body language and comments throughout the visit pointed to the beginning of a notably warm political alliance. This new bond emerges as Meloni continues to maintain a unique position in European politics regarding the United States; she was the only European head of state invited to Donald Trump's inauguration last year. The Tokyo summit suggests a deliberate and personal expansion of her diplomatic network, uniting two of the world's leading conservative female leaders.
