Donald Trump got a shout-out of sorts from Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi during the Italian leader's visit to the White House on Tuesday. At an arrival ceremony on the White House's South Lawn alongside President Obama, Renzi took an indirect jab at the Republican presidential nominee, saying he hoped America's next president would be as inclusive and tolerant as Obama has been. "My personal opinion is that the name of future has to be freedom. The name of the future has to be education not intolerance, sustainability not distraction, trust not hate, bridge[s] not walls," Renzi said.
Renzi followed that not-so-subtle plea with particularly warm words for Obama. "Under your leadership, a country hit by crisis started growing again," Renzi said. "Day after day, you have made changes that improve lives, help the environment, and create opportunities for poor people. I think there are a lot of people who think politics is only about screaming and fighting each other, creating hate and division. You are different, Mr. President. We are different."
Renzi's visit to the White House marks Obama's final state visit of his presidency. The leaders planned to discuss climate change and the migrant crisis during a private meeting, followed by a news conference. On Tuesday night, there will be a state dinner, featuring a performance by Gwen Stefani.