Elon Musk presents award to Giorgia Meloni amid controversy

Elon Musk is set to present Giorgia Meloni with the Atlantic Council's global citizen award during a gala dinner in New York, coinciding with the UN General Assembly. This recognition highlights Meloni's role as Italy's first female prime minister and her support for the European Union and transatlantic relations. However, her past admiration for Vladimir Putin and controversial stances on LGBTQ+ issues have sparked objections among some Atlantic Council staff. Meloni's choice of Musk as the presenter has further fueled discontent, given their close ties since her election in October 2022. The Atlantic Council's CEO defended the decision, emphasizing the organization's diversity of thought and the importance of lively discussions. Meloni's relationship with Musk is seen as beneficial, potentially providing her with a connection to the Trump administration, especially as Trump has expressed interest in appointing Musk to a government position if he wins the election. Meloni has previously praised Trump's political style and has maintained a balance in her relations with both Trump and Biden. In addition to the award presentation, Meloni has been engaging with tech leaders in New York, seeking insights on AI and disruptive technologies. This reflects her aim to attract investments to Italy while addressing the societal impacts of technological advancements. The collaboration with Musk is viewed as a strategic move, as she values his innovative approach over his political affiliations. Overall, the award presentation and Meloni's interactions with Musk and other tech leaders underscore her efforts to navigate complex political landscapes while promoting Italy's interests on the global stage.