June 15th 2024.
During a visit to Apulia, southern Italy, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni to discuss the progress and strengthen their bilateral strategic partnership. The two leaders also agreed to enhance cooperation in global forums and multilateral initiatives, including the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. This partnership was a key topic of their meeting on Friday, which marked the end of Modi's day-long visit to Italy.
According to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs, the leaders expressed their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific and discussed the potential of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. "Both leaders look forward to implementing joint activities under the Indo-Pacific Ocean Initiative framework to realize their shared vision," the statement said. This commitment is particularly relevant in light of China's recent aggressive actions in the region.
In addition to discussing regional and global issues, Modi and Meloni also emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation in global forums and multilateral initiatives, including the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. During the meeting, Modi expressed his gratitude to Meloni for inviting India to be a part of the G7 Summit and for the excellent arrangements made for the event. The two leaders also explored ways to further solidify the relationship between their countries, particularly in areas such as commerce, energy, defense, and telecommunications.
One of the key topics of discussion was the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, which is a groundbreaking initiative that aims to establish a vast network of roads, railroads, and shipping routes connecting Saudi Arabia, India, the United States, and Europe. This project seeks to promote integration between Asia, the Middle East, and the West. It is also seen as a way for like-minded nations to increase their strategic influence in the face of China's Belt and Road Initiative, which has been criticized for its lack of transparency and disregard for the sovereignty of other nations.
The IMEC was first proposed on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Delhi last year. "The two leaders noted with satisfaction the regular higher political dialogue and reviewed the progress of the India-Italy Strategic Partnership," the MEA statement said. They also expressed their pleasure at the growing trade and economic collaboration between their countries and called for further expansion in areas such as clean energy, manufacturing, space, science and technology, and critical minerals to build resilient supply chains. They also welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Industrial Property Rights, which provides a framework for cooperation on patents, designs, and trademarks.
During their meeting, Modi and Meloni also discussed bilateral defense and security cooperation and expressed their desire to strengthen defense-industrial collaboration. They looked forward to the visit of the Italian aircraft carrier ITS Cavour and training ship ITS Vespucci to India later this year. Modi also thanked the Italian government for recognizing the Indian Army's contribution during World War II and announced plans to upgrade the Yashwant Ghadge Memorial in Montone, Italy.
The MEA statement also highlighted the cooperation between India and Italy in the energy sector through the Global Biofuels Alliance and the signing of a Letter of Intent for Cooperation in Energy Transition. This agreement aims to boost cooperation in clean and green energy. The leaders also expressed their happiness at the new Executive Program of Cooperation for 2025-27, which promotes joint research and development in science and technology.
The cultural ties between India and Italy were also acknowledged, particularly the longstanding Indological studies tradition in Italy. To further strengthen these ties, the first ICCR chair on India studies will be established at the University of Milan. The two leaders also called for the early implementation of the Migration and Mobility Agreement, which will facilitate the mobility of professionals, skilled and semi-skilled workers, students, and researchers.
Earlier in the day, Meloni welcomed Modi and leaders from other countries, including Algeria, Argentina, Brazil, Jordan, Kenya, Mauritania, Tunisia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates, to the Outreach session on Artificial Intelligence, Energy, Africa, and the Mediterranean, along with Pope Francis. The G7 Summit, hosted by Italy, will be formally concluded on Saturday and was attended by the Group of Seven Industrialized nations, as well as the European Union.
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