Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni highlighted her proficiency in Hindi during a joint press conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Rome. She used the phrase “parishram hi safalta ki kunji hai,” translating to “hard work is the key to success,” to emphasise the importance of diligent effort in the burgeoning ties between India and Italy. This expression was part of her address focusing on the historic nature of Modi’s visit.

Meloni characterised this occasion as a significant moment in enhancing bilateral relations, stating that India and Italy have entered a “Special Strategic Partnership.” She elaborated on the commitment required for nurturing diplomatic connections, indicating that sustained effort has been pivotal in deepening these ties.

Significance of Modi’s Visit to Italy

Meloni noted that this visit was the first bilateral mission undertaken by an Indian Prime Minister to Italy in over twenty years. Stressing its importance, she remarked on the revitalisation of engagement between the two nations. The last visit by an Indian leader on a bilateral basis was reported to have taken place in the year 2000, highlighting the long gap since then.

The Italian Prime Minister acknowledged Modi’s leadership since 2014 and emphasised that this trip aimed to bridge the previous absence of diplomatic interactions. Discussing their earlier meetings, she pointed out that both nations had been proactive in enhancing cooperation through strategic agreements in various fields.

Meloni mentioned the Strategic Partnership launched in 2023 and looked forward to further developments during the upcoming G20 summit in Brazil in 2024. She underscored ongoing initiatives aimed at fortifying connections between their countries.

Expanding Trade and Cultural Collaboration

During her address, Meloni detailed the objective of increasing bilateral trade from the current Rs 14,000 crore to Rs 20,000 crore by 2029. She highlighted the economic complementarity that exists between India and Italy, suggesting that the recent Free Trade Agreement between the European Union and India would facilitate this ambitious target.

Efforts to broaden collaboration were also emphasised, particularly in sectors like artificial intelligence, defence, and energy. The Italian Prime Minister introduced the InnovIT India initiative, aimed at fostering synergy among startups, universities, and research institutions of both nations.

Meloni articulated that the combination of India’s robust digital infrastructure and innovative spirit with Italy’s manufacturing strength presents considerable opportunities for mutual business investments. She expressed a commitment to explore these avenues fully, with an eye towards industrial cooperation and job creation.

Global Cooperation and Future Initiatives

Meloni announced collaborative efforts on global initiatives, such as the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), intended to enhance trade connectivity. She referred to this project as vital for improving resilience in global supply chains and ensuring trade facilitation.

Additionally, she disclosed plans for an Italy-India Year of Culture and Tourism set for 2027, designed to improve people-to-people interactions between the two countries and bolster cultural understanding.

Addressing shared priorities, Meloni expressed confidence in collaborative approaches towards issues impacting international stability and maritime security. She reaffirmed the commitment of both leaders to continue working together on significant global concerns, including the situations in Ukraine and the Middle East. This collaborative agenda was underscored as part of a strategic framework to enhance bilateral relations during Modi’s visit to Rome.

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