WASHINGTON

President Donald Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni struck upbeat tones Thursday on the prospects for the US and EU striking a trade deal amid the American leader's global tariff push.

Trade is expected to dominate the talks, with Meloni being tapped by the EU to lead negotiations on a deal that has been made all the more urgent by Trump's decision to impose tariffs of at least 10% on nations around the world. The EU was hit with a levy rate of 20%, but like dozens of other nations, the bloc was granted a 90-day reprieve to allow for negotiations.

Trump said he is in "no rush" to strike the bargain, but maintained he believes "there will be a trade deal. 100%."

"Of course, there'll be a trade deal. Very much. They want to make one, very much. And we're going to make a trade deal. I fully expect it, but it'll be a fair deal," he told reporters as he hosted Meloni at the White House for a working lunch ahead of an Oval Office sit-down.

The sentiment was echoed by the Italian premier, who said: "I'm sure we can make a deal, and I'm here to help with that."

Trump's 90-day pause is due to end on July 9, adding gravity to the talks with nations around the world. Japan sent a high-level delegation to the White House on Wednesday for negotiations in which Trump participated and was similarly upbeat after they concluded.

Trump said he is confident the US will also be able to "make a very good deal with China."

Meloni is expected to fly back to Rome later Thursday, and will host Vice President JD Vance on Friday for an official state visit.