Modi, Meloni strengthen India-Italy friendship with renewed shared vision
India, Italy ties blend growth, creativity and ancient wisdom
When two ancient civilizations find new ways to walk together into the future, something special happens. Today India and Italy stand at such a moment. Our ties — once rooted in respect and friendship — are now unfolding into a special strategic partnership that combines Italy’s craftsmanship and industrial mastery with India’s scale, innovation and youthful energy.
This is not mere diplomacy for its own sake. The world around us is changing rapidly: new technologies, shifting energy systems and evolving security challenges are reshaping how nations prosper and protect their citizens. In this context, India and Italy have chosen to deepen our engagement through regular high-level exchanges and shared projects, because we believe that the future will be written by those who can innovate responsibly and build resilient supply chains.
Think of it as co-creation rather than simple cooperation. Italy’s design sensibility, manufacturing excellence and industrial know-how can amplify India’s engineering talent, large market and fast-growing startup ecosystem. Together we can transform ideas into products and services that are globally competitive. Our ambition is clear: to surpass the Euro 20 billion trade target by 2029 and to expand collaboration across defence and aerospace, clean technology, pharmaceuticals, textiles, agri-food and tourism.
Technology sits at the heart of this partnership. The coming decades will be defined by breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, advanced manufacturing and critical minerals. India’s vibrant digital ecosystem and large pool of skilled professionals, coupled with Italy’s industrial strengths and ethical approach to technology, create a natural synergy. Universities and research centres on both sides are already forging ties, and our shared work will focus on innovations that serve people — not replace them.
Artificial intelligence deserves a special mention. As AI changes societies and economies, we must ensure it remains human-centred. India’s vision of MANAV — placing the human at the centre of technology — and Italy’s guidance on algor-ethics rooted in humanist traditions form a strong moral compass. Together we want AI that empowers citizens, supports inclusive development across the Global South, and protects democratic values from manipulation. Our collaboration at forums such as the AI Impact Summit reflects this shared responsibility.
Energy and sustainability are another pillar of our partnership. The transition to diversified, cleaner energy sources will require investment, innovation and cooperation. India’s leadership in initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure is an invitation for Italy and other partners to scale sustainable solutions. We see opportunities across renewable energy, biofuels and resilient infrastructure that can drive jobs and reduce emissions.
Security and connectivity also bind us. From space collaboration — combining India’s growing space capabilities with Italy’s aerospace engineering — to maritime security and defense cooperation, our aim is to protect vital routes and deter transnational threats like terrorism, smuggling and cybercrime. At the same time, we are building physical and digital links across regions: the idea of an Indo-Mediterranean corridor reflects how the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean are now connected by trade, data and ideas.
Beyond strategy and commerce lies a deeper cultural harmony. Our civilisations share a reverence for human dignity, creativity and responsibility. India’s concept of Dharma and Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world is one family — resonates with Italy’s Renaissance humanism. These shared values guide our partnership and remind us that policies and technologies must uplift people.
This relationship is a promise: to co-create value, to protect freedoms, and to enable prosperity that is inclusive and sustainable. Italy and India will work together — with businesses, universities, and citizens — to turn this promise into concrete outcomes that benefit our peoples and the world at large.