"Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Wednesday offered Christmas Eve wishes of peace, light and unity to the Italian people, striking a more hopeful tone just a day after warning her staff that the year ahead would be 'much worse.' "I wish to extend my sincere best wishes to all Italians: to those spending Christmas with their families, to those celebrating while working, to those who are at peace, and to those carrying worry in their hearts," she stated. The prime minister also reiterated her long‑held position that the nativity scene serves as a cultural and moral symbol. "Years ago, I told you, let's pick up the shepherd figurine and start the nativity scene revolution. I still believe that," Meloni said. "The nativity scene imposes nothing on anyone. The nativity scene tells a story, safeguards values, and deepens our roots," she emphasised. Meloni urged Italians to take pride in their national identity and to extend support to those in need. "May this Christmas gift everyone a little light, calm and strength. May it be a time to come together again [...] Happy Christmas Eve and a Merry Holy Christmas to all," she concluded. This comes after Meloni on Tuesday encouraged her staff to rest well over the Christmas holidays, warning: "The year we have spent was tough for all of us, but don't worry, the next one will be much worse.""