Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a series of high-level bilateral meetings with several world leaders on the sidelines of the 19th G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, further advancing India’s diplomatic and economic relations. Among the leaders he met were French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Portugal’s Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto.
Strengthening India-France Ties
In a warm meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, Prime Minister Modi expressed his joy at their longstanding friendship. “It is always a matter of immense joy to meet my friend, President Emmanuel Macron,” Modi tweeted after the meeting. He also congratulated France for the successful hosting of the Paris Olympics and Paralympics earlier this year.
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The two leaders discussed deepening cooperation between India and France in key sectors, including space, energy, artificial intelligence (AI), and other cutting-edge technologies. “Our nations will also work closely to enhance people-to-people linkages,” Modi noted.
India-UK Relations in Focus
Prime Minister Modi also described his conversation with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer as “extremely productive.” He highlighted that the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and the United Kingdom remains a priority for India.
“We are eager to collaborate in areas such as technology, green energy, security, and innovation,” Modi said. He also emphasized strengthening trade and cultural ties between the two nations in the coming years.
Enhancing India-Italy Cooperation
During his talks with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Modi focused on expanding the partnership between India and Italy in several vital sectors. “Our discussions centered on deepening ties in defence, security, trade, and technology,” Modi remarked. The leaders also explored ways to enhance cooperation in culture, education, and other areas.
“We believe that the India-Italy friendship can greatly contribute to a better planet,” the Prime Minister added.
India-Norway Collaboration
Prime Minister Modi’s meeting with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre centered on fostering closer collaboration in free trade, as well as sectors like renewable energy, green hydrogen, and the blue economy. Both leaders also discussed the potential for further investment linkages between the two countries.
The leaders also touched on shared concerns regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the instability in the Middle East. Notably, Støre highlighted the possibilities for enhanced cooperation following the signing of the new EFTA-India Free Trade Agreement, which promises increased job creation and economic growth for both nations.
Strengthening Ties with Portugal and Indonesia
Prime Minister Modi’s engagements also extended to Portugal and Indonesia, where he held constructive talks with Prime Minister Luís Montenegro and President Prabowo Subianto, respectively.
Modi expressed his appreciation for India’s long-standing relationship with Portugal, focusing on the potential for growth in renewable energy and green hydrogen sectors. He also underscored the importance of strong defence ties and people-to-people linkages.
The meeting with Indonesian President Subianto centered on bolstering bilateral cooperation in commerce, security, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals. “This year is special as we mark 75 years of India-Indonesia diplomatic relations,” Modi said.
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