Daijiworld Media Network – Rome

Rome, May 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday held extensive bilateral talks with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, with discussions centred on strengthening cooperation in key areas including trade, defence, clean energy and technology.

Both leaders reviewed the entire spectrum of India–Italy relations and agreed to further expand collaboration in emerging sectors. PM Modi was accompanied by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, MEA Secretary (West) Sibi George, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and other senior officials.

Ahead of the bilateral meeting, Prime Minister Modi called on Italian President Sergio Mattarella. The two leaders discussed ways to enhance India–Italy relations, including trade, investment and cultural ties. They also explored opportunities for cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence, critical minerals, space technology and nuclear energy.

Earlier, PM Modi arrived in Rome on Tuesday and held a dinner meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, followed by a visit to the iconic Colosseum. Before visiting Italy, he participated in the 3rd India-Nordic Summit held in Oslo, Norway.

Following the talks, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced that India and Italy have agreed to elevate their relationship to a “special strategic partnership,” stating that the partnership is now positioned to achieve its full potential.

She also noted that India and Italy share a relationship built on mutual respect and trust, and emphasised the importance of freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region.

Both sides reiterated their commitment to revitalising bilateral ties and expanding cooperation across multiple sectors, marking a new phase in India–Italy relations.