French President Emmanuel Macron kissed Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on the cheek, a gesture that became a topic of discussion on social media, according to multiple reports. The interaction occurred as the two leaders held a telephone conversation on Thursday, March 5, to discuss developments in the conflict in Iran, its impact on the Middle East and internationally, and freedom of navigation, the Italian government said. During the call, Meloni and Macron reaffirmed their joint commitment to support Gulf countries affected by what they described as unjustified Iranian attacks, to the security of Cyprus, and to avoid military escalation in Lebanon, according to an official statement.
" The specific context of the cheek kiss and the exact nature of the Iran conflict referenced remain unclear.
Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and President Macron reaffirmed their joint commitment to support the Gulf countries affected by unjustified Iranian attacks, and for the security of Cyprus, as well as to avoid military escalation in Lebanon.