A significant moment at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg was the warm interaction between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Their meeting, just prior to the summit’s commencement, served as a visual representation of the deepening India-Italy strategic partnership and personal rapport.
This connection, affectionately dubbed ‘#Melodi’ online, has been carefully cultivated through mutual respect and shared values. PM Modi’s praise for Meloni as a leader who “combines ideas and heart” and his insights into their shared “civilising instincts” in his book preface reveal a strong ideological alignment. Meloni, in turn, has expressed deep honor and sincere reciprocation of these sentiments, emphasizing the robust bond between their countries.
The leaders’ commitment to advancing bilateral ties was evident in their discussions on strategic cooperation. This includes Italy’s backing for the India-EU trade deal and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. They also addressed pressing global concerns, including the conflict in Ukraine, advocating for peaceful resolutions. Italy’s support for India’s upcoming AI Impact Summit further solidifies their collaborative efforts.
The growing warmth and effective diplomacy between Modi and Meloni are not only strengthening bilateral relations but also capturing global attention, reinforcing the positive trajectory of India-Italy friendship.