Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently held talks with Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni, reaffirming the strategic partnership between India and Italy and discussing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, as well as the India-EU trade deal.
During the conversation, the leaders expressed satisfaction with the deepening and diversification of the India-Italy relationship across various sectors. They reiterated their commitment to further strengthen the bilateral ties, emphasizing the potential for enhanced cooperation in areas such as trade, defense, and culture.
The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, with a particular focus on the Ukraine conflict. PM Modi and PM Meloni voiced their concerns about the conflict's impact on the global economic situation, especially its adverse effects on vulnerable economies in the Global South. They stressed the importance of a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy. Modi reiterated India's readiness to contribute to any peace initiative aimed at resolving the crisis. Meloni expressed her hope that India would play a central role in facilitating negotiations for the cessation of hostilities in Ukraine.
In addition to the Ukraine conflict, the leaders discussed the India-EU trade deal, recognizing its potential to unlock significant economic opportunities for both sides. They expressed their commitment to work towards a swift and mutually beneficial agreement.
Furthermore, the discussions covered the entire range of bilateral, regional, and global cooperation, with both leaders noting the warm, cordial, and friendly atmosphere of their conversation. A strong bond of friendship between the two leaders was clearly visible during the discussions. Specific areas of importance that were discussed included defense cooperation, maritime cooperation, and cooperation in space, cyber, and sea. The need for deepened cooperation in the field of space, cyber, and sea was identified as a key strategic sector in the cooperation between the two countries. Work will now begin between the two sides to identify specific areas of partnership in each of these domains. Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief were also identified as areas for potential cooperation.
Notably, Italian PM Georgia Meloni has previously stated her belief that India can play a role in resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict, echoing similar sentiments expressed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Meloni's remarks underscore India's emergence as a key player in the ongoing conflict, owing to its strong diplomatic ties with both Russia and Ukraine.
