There are problematic topics that should generally be avoided, especially during a first contact. This concerns themes upon which not everyone agrees, and which may therefore make a conversation more strained. As an example, politics (along with the different issues involved) is a subject that could make a first contact uncomfortable.
In Italy, the use of humour is a fairly common means of breaking the ice. Yet, it must be used with care. Misunderstandings and confusion may be frequent if there is not good communication (i.e., linguistic comprehension) between the Italian and the Canadian.