Modi, Meloni review progress of India-Italy strategic partnership.
During their meeting, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni reviewed the progress of the India-Italy strategic partnership. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the discussions focused on bilateral defense and security cooperation, emphasizing the importance of enhancing the defense-industrial collaboration between the two countries. Both leaders expressed optimism about further strengthening ties in these areas, recognizing the mutual benefits of such cooperation. The meeting underscored the commitment of India and Italy to work closely on defense initiatives and to explore new opportunities for industrial collaboration in the sector.
Bari: Strengthening the India-Italy Strategic Partnership
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni held a significant meeting in Bari, Italy, reviewing the progress of the India-Italy strategic partnership. Their discussions aimed at fortifying cooperation on bilateral, regional, and global issues, reflecting a mutual commitment to enhance ties across various sectors.
Review of Bilateral Strategic Partnership
The meeting, which took place towards the end of Modi’s day-long visit to Apulia in southern Italy, was an opportunity for both leaders to evaluate the advancements in their strategic partnership. Modi expressed gratitude to Meloni for the invitation to the G7 Summit, underscoring the importance of such high-level engagements in fostering deeper bilateral relations. The leaders reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening the partnership, particularly in defense and security cooperation. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) noted that both sides discussed enhancing defense-industrial collaboration, emphasizing the mutual benefits and potential for growth in this sector.
Commitment to a Free and Open Indo-Pacific
A central theme of the discussions was the commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, amidst China’s increasing assertiveness in the region. The MEA readout highlighted that both leaders were aligned in their vision for the Indo-Pacific, agreeing to undertake joint activities under the Indo-Pacific Ocean Initiative framework. This initiative aims to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region through collaborative efforts in maritime security, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable use of marine resources. Modi and Meloni’s dialogue on this topic reinforced their shared strategic interests and the importance of maintaining an inclusive and rules-based regional order.
The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)
Another significant topic of discussion was the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). Billed as a path-breaking initiative, the IMEC envisages the creation of a vast road, railroad, and shipping network connecting Saudi Arabia, India, the United States, and Europe. This corridor aims to enhance integration among Asia, the Middle East, and the West, fostering economic connectivity and regional cooperation. The leaders agreed on the strategic importance of the IMEC and expressed their commitment to advancing this initiative. They acknowledged that the IMEC could serve as a vital link for trade and commerce, promoting economic growth and stability across the connected regions.
Cooperation in Global Fora and Multilateral Initiatives
Modi and Meloni also emphasized the importance of cooperation in global fora and multilateral initiatives. They agreed to strengthen their collaboration in various international platforms, recognizing the need for a united approach to address global challenges such as climate change, economic inequality, and security threats. The discussions reflected a shared understanding of the importance of multilateralism and the role of international institutions in maintaining global peace and stability. Both leaders expressed optimism about their countries’ ability to contribute positively to global governance and to work together on initiatives that benefit the international community.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Italy and his meeting with Premier Giorgia Meloni marked a significant step in strengthening the India-Italy strategic partnership. Their discussions highlighted the mutual commitment to enhancing cooperation in defense, security, economic connectivity, and multilateral engagements. The focus on the Indo-Pacific and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor underscored the strategic alignment between the two nations on critical regional and global issues. As India and Italy look forward to implementing joint activities and initiatives, the foundations of their partnership are set to grow stronger, contributing to regional stability and global prosperity.
The bilateral engagement in Bari reflected the evolving dynamics of international relations, where strategic partnerships and multilateral cooperation are increasingly vital. Modi and Meloni’s commitment to a shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific, along with their support for the IMEC, exemplifies their forward-looking approach to global challenges. This meeting not only reinforced the ties between India and Italy but also highlighted their potential to collaborate on initiatives that have far-reaching implications for global trade, security, and development. As both nations continue to navigate the complexities of the international landscape, their partnership stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and mutual respect in shaping a better future.
Modi and Meloni Strengthen India-Italy Strategic Partnership
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni reviewed the progress of the India-Italy strategic partnership during their meeting in Bari, Italy. IMEC aims to counter China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) by promoting transparent, sovereignty-respecting connectivity among Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
The leaders expressed satisfaction with the regular higher political dialogue and growing trade and economic collaboration. They called for expanding commercial ties in clean energy, manufacturing, space, science and technology, telecom, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals to build resilient supply chains. They welcomed the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Industrial Property Rights, which will enhance cooperation on patents, designs, and trademarks.
Bilateral defense and security cooperation were also discussed, with both sides hoping to further enhance defense-industrial collaboration. Modi thanked the Italian government for recognizing the Indian Army’s contribution during World War II and announced plans to upgrade the Yashwant Ghadge Memorial in Montone, Italy.
The leaders noted the coordination under the ‘Global Biofuels Alliance’ and welcomed the signing of a Letter of Intent for Cooperation in Energy Transition. They also expressed happiness at the new Executive Programme of Cooperation for 2025-27 to promote joint research and development in science and technology. The establishment of the first ICCR chair on India studies at the University of Milan will further strengthen the people-to-people connect between the two countries.
Prime Minister Modi, along with leaders from several other countries, attended the Outreach session on Artificial Intelligence, Energy, Africa, and the Mediterranean at the G7 Summit, which was hosted by Italy.