Obama family a huge hit in Italy

July 12, 11:26 AMItalian Living ExaminerSerenella Leoni

During the past week, the Italian media could not do enough reporting on the visit of America’s first family to Italy for the G8 Conference.

The newscasts and media articles were replete with stories on everything about the first family, including whom they were visiting, what Michelle and Barack were wearing and what conclusions could be drawn from President Obama’s statements.

RAI TG1 was downright effusive showing both Michelle Obama’s and President Obama’s (separate) visits to the ruins of the April earthquake in the L’Aquila area (where the G8 Conference was held).

President Obama’s demeanor prompted Premier Silvio Berlusconi to say the following:

I have always collaborated with all the American administrations from Clinton, to Bush (with whom I still have ties of personal friendship).  I must recognize that the new American administration did not make one mistake in international politics (at this meeting) so I must compliment President Obama.

Barack Obama also met with Italian President Giorgio Napolitano and thanked him for his leadership. Obama said Napolitano has "The admiration of the Italian people for his integrity and kindness.” Obama also confirmed that Napolitano is an “extraordinary gentleman” and represents the best side of Italy.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Napolitano escorted Michelle Obama on a tour of the Quirinale Palace.

Perhaps the most affectionate coverage was reserved for Sasha and Malia who, accompanied by their grandmother, became gelato makers for a day.  Before their visit, the U.S. Embassy in Rome had requested a visit to the famous Gelateria Giolitti where the girls could have the same experience previously granted to other American children.

Malia and Sasha spent the afternoon in the historic Gelateria (near the Italian Parliament) where they learned the secrets of hand-made gelato in their favorite flavors (blackberry and banana).  They reportedly ate the gelato with great gusto and took some with them to offer Michelle who loves natural food products.

Photo/Haraz N. Ghanbari