India And Italy Deepen Strategic Engagement Across Trade, Defence And Connectivity

India and Italy are expanding the scope of their bilateral relationship as economic, defence and connectivity cooperation take on greater importance.

A Decode39 report said the two countries now face the task of turning their growing strategic framework into concrete outcomes as the European Union moves closer to completing its trade agreement with India.

New Delhi and Rome established a Strategic Partnership in 2023 before adopting a Joint Strategic Action Plan covering 2025-2029 in 2024.

The relationship subsequently moved to a Special Strategic Partnership during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Italy in May.

John Cabot University’s Guarini Institute for Public Affairs recently hosted the first Italy-India Track 1.5 Dialogue in Rome.

The forum examined the evolution of bilateral relations ahead of the 80th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2027.

Indian Ambassador to Italy Vani Rao participated in the event’s public programme.

The Decode39 report highlighted opportunities to expand commercial links between the two economies.

It said financial institutions could contribute more to bilateral commerce, while differences in regulations and non-tariff barriers continue to complicate deeper economic integration.

India and Italy have also set a €20 billion trade target as part of their expanding economic relationship.

Defence Links Continue to Grow

Defence cooperation now covers several areas, including procurement, research and development, industrial partnerships and exchanges between personnel.

Their strategic interests extend across maritime routes linking the Indo-Pacific, Middle East and Europe.

The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor has added another dimension to bilateral cooperation.

The corridor could connect Italy’s Mediterranean interests with its engagement in the Indo-Pacific while providing India with an additional route towards European markets.

Both countries are preparing to commemorate 80 years of diplomatic relations in 2027, alongside initiatives linked to cultural tourism.

The Decode39 report said these milestones could help expand the foundations of the partnership.

Recent exchanges between PM Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have also highlighted their stated interest in strengthening bilateral cooperation.

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