Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently engaged in a conversation with his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni, extending warm greetings on Italy’s Liberation Day anniversary. During their discussion, Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude for the invitation to attend the G7 Summit Outreach Sessions in Puglia, Italy, scheduled for June. The two leaders highlighted the importance of advancing the outcomes achieved during India’s G20 Presidency, particularly those benefiting the Global South, at the upcoming G7 Summit under Italy’s Presidency. They reiterated their commitment to enhancing the bilateral Strategic partnership and exchanged views on various regional and global developments of mutual interest.
PM Modi shared his sentiments on social media, stating, “Spoke with PM @GiorgiaMeloni and extended greetings as Italy celebrates its Liberation Day today. Thanked her for the invite to the G7 Summit in June. Discussed taking forward #G20India outcomes at the G7. Reaffirmed commitment to deepening our Strategic Partnership.”
Spoke with PM @GiorgiaMeloni and extended greetings as Italy celebrates its Liberation day today. Thanked her for the invite to the G7 Summit in June. Discussed taking forward #G20India outcomes at the G7. Reaffirmed commitment to deepening our Strategic Partnership.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 25, 2024
This interaction marks another chapter in the growing rapport between the two leaders, following their previous meeting at the COP28 Summit in Dubai, where PM Modi expressed eagerness for collaborative efforts between India and Italy towards a sustainable future. Meloni’s social media post featuring a selfie with PM Modi, accompanied by the hashtag #Melodi, symbolized the strengthening friendship between the two leaders.
The mention of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s Italian connection sparked humorous remarks, with some suggesting PM Modi invite Meloni to India for his 2024 Lok Sabha campaign, in jest about an “Italian being supported by an Italian.” This light-hearted exchange drew attention to the political landscape.
Previous bilateral meetings between Meloni and PM Modi, notably during the G20 Summit in New Delhi, showcased the fruitful cooperation between India and Italy. PM Modi lauded Italy’s support for India’s G20 Presidency and its participation in initiatives like the Global Biofuel Alliance and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.
The completion of 75 years of diplomatic relations between India and Italy was acknowledged with satisfaction, accompanied by discussions on enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including defense and emerging technologies. Both leaders emphasized the importance of the G7 and G20 aligning their efforts for the greater global good, reflecting their shared commitment to international collaboration and progress.
