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Trump-Zelensky Meeting in Focus, Yet Meloni’s Indian Style Greeting Became the Talking Point

The recent meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dominated global headlines.

Last Updated : Tuesday, 19 August 2025
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International News: The recent meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dominated global headlines. However, it was Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni who unexpectedly caught public attention during her visit to the White House. Instead of the usual handshake, Meloni greeted everyone with a traditional Indian-style “Namaste,” folding her hands gracefully in front of her chest.

A Unique Diplomatic Gesture

Meloni’s choice of greeting stood out in the highly formal setting of the White House. The gesture, simple yet symbolic, reflected humility and warmth. It also highlighted her ability to adapt to different cultures while maintaining dignity on the world stage. For many observers, this small act conveyed as much as a long diplomatic statement.

Not the First Time

This was not the first occasion when Meloni used "Namaste" in an international setting. Earlier, during the G7 Summit held in Italy, she welcomed several world leaders in the same way. Her style of greeting has become something of a signature move, making her interactions appear approachable and respectful. Such gestures are often remembered long after the official talks are over.

Social Media Reactions

Unsurprisingly, videos of Meloni’s Namaste at the White House quickly went viral. Short clips circulated widely across social media platforms, with users praising her simplicity and cultural sensitivity. Many described it as a refreshing moment in an otherwise serious atmosphere of global politics. The video drew thousands of reactions, making Meloni one of the most talked-about leaders of the day.

Friendship with Prime Minister Modi

Meloni’s Namaste gesture has also been seen during her interactions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A video from a recent summit shows the two leaders greeting each other warmly, followed by a brief but engaging conversation. Their cordial relationship has become a frequent subject of online discussions. The hashtag #Melodi, a blend of their names, has been trending once again as people share moments of their friendly exchanges.

A Symbol of Soft Diplomacy

Beyond the viral videos, analysts believe that Meloni’s gesture carries deeper significance. In international politics, body language often speaks louder than words. By adopting Namaste, Meloni not only showed personal respect but also projected an image of cultural openness and humility. Such gestures, though small, help strengthen bonds between nations and create goodwill among people.