PM Narendra Modi and Giorgia Meloni Elevate India-Italy Ties to Special Strategic Partnership

Image Source : @narendramodi on X

Dated 20th May 2026

News By Dr. B R Abdul Wajid

Editor in Chief

Rome | Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Rome, Italy on an official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between India and Italy. During the visit, Prime Minister Modi held important meetings with Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and discussed ways to enhance cooperation in several sectors.

Prime Minister Modi stated that the visit focused on strengthening India-Italy cooperation, especially through the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the India-Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029. He also visited the Headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and reaffirmed India’s commitment towards multilateralism and global food security.

After arriving in Rome, Prime Minister Modi met Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni over dinner and later visited the famous Colosseum. He said both leaders exchanged views on a wide range of subjects and discussed ways to further strengthen India-Italy friendship.

All Images Source : @narendramodi on X

VIDEO | In her message on X, PM of Italy Giorgia Meloni said, “The relationship between India and Italy has now reached a decisive phase. In recent years, our ties have expanded with unprecedented momentum, evolving from a cordial friendship to a special strategic partnership founded on the values of freedom and democracy, as well as on a shared vision of the future.” Video Source : @GiorgiaMeloni on X

Prime Minister Modi further stated that he and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni jointly wrote an article highlighting how India-Italy relations have reached a decisive stage. He said both countries have elevated their ties to a “Special Strategic Partnership” driven by innovation, shared democratic values and a common vision for the future.

Prime Minister Modi also met President Sergio Mattarella and discussed various aspects of India-Italy friendship including trade, investment and cultural cooperation. Both leaders also discussed collaboration in important sectors such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), critical minerals, space and nuclear energy.

Images Source : @narendramodi on X

During bilateral talks, Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Meloni reviewed the progress of the India-Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029 and agreed to further strengthen investment and economic relations. Prime Minister Modi said the proposed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) would provide a historic opportunity to boost economic cooperation. Discussions were also held on digital infrastructure, connectivity, science and AI.

Prime Minister Modi described his discussions with Prime Minister Meloni as excellent and appreciated her commitment towards strengthening India-Italy friendship. He stated that bilateral relations between India and Italy have significantly progressed in sectors such as trade, space and technology.

VIDEO | PM Narendra Modi gifted PM Giorgia Meloni a packet of “Melody” toffees — the chocolate, caramel candy made by Parle Products. In reply PM Giorgia Meloni said ‘Thank you for the gift’. Video Source : @GiorgiaMeloni on X.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Modi was honoured with the Agricola Medal by the FAO. He said the award reflects India’s strong commitment towards food security, sustainable development and the hard work of people associated with the agriculture sector.

The visit is being seen as an important step towards further strengthening strategic, economic and cultural ties between India and Italy.

Images Source : @narendramodi on X

VIDEO | In her message on X, PM Giorgia Meloni said, “The visit of the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, marks the culmination of a journey that we have built over these years with steadfastness and determination. Today in Rome, we elevate our relationship to a special strategic partnership, that is, the highest level ever achieved in relations between our two Nations. Italy and India are closer than ever, and our relations are in a position to express their potential at the highest level.” Video Source : @GiorgiaMeloni on X.

“The visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Italy and his meetings with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and President Sergio Mattarella are expected to further strengthen the growing partnership between India and Italy. The discussions and agreements held during the visit are likely to open new opportunities for cooperation in trade, technology, investment, food security and global development, taking the friendship between the two nations to greater heights.’ ~ News By Dr. B R Abdul Wajid.