Erdogan advocates against smoking and aims to persuade Meloni, but faces unexpected resistance
Amid recent diplomatic meetings in Egypt dedicated to ending the Gaza war, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan drew significant attention with his unconventional remarks about personal habits and political ambitions.
He made an unexpected statement claiming he intends to persuade Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to quit smoking, arguing that it is vital for her health and authority.
Erdogan said, “You look great.
But I must make you quit smoking.” This comment caused considerable buzz in the media.
A video of their conversation was shared by Italian publication Il Foglio and other outlets.
However, during this exchange, French President Emmanuel Macron, who was also present, immediately cooled Erdogan’s enthusiasm with a joke: “That’s impossible!” Meloni responded by revealing she had resumed smoking after a 13-year hiatus, emphasizing that smoking had helped her establish informal relationships with other world leaders, including Tunisian President Kais Saied.
She added that quitting smoking might negatively affect her personality.
This intriguing episode once again highlights how personal habits of politicians can become part of diplomatic interactions and negotiations.