Meloni greets Modi in Rome as India-Italy partnership gains momentum
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Rome on Tuesday evening for the final stop of his five-nation diplomatic tour. Soon after his arrival, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni welcomed him with a warm public message that quickly drew attention online.
Meloni shared a photograph with Modi near the iconic Colosseum and addressed the Indian leader as “my friend” in a social media post. The gesture added a personal touch to a visit that already carries major political and economic significance for both countries.
As Modi reached the Italian capital, officials and members of the Indian community gathered to welcome him. Italian Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani received Modi at the airport. Later, cultural performers greeted the Indian delegation with music and traditional dance at the hotel venue in Rome.
Outside the hotel, members of the Indian diaspora waved flags, clicked photographs and chanted slogans in support of the Prime Minister. Several attendees said they felt proud to witness stronger engagement between New Delhi and Rome at a time when global alliances continue to shift rapidly.
The Italy visit marks the last leg of Modi’s multi-country diplomatic outreach across Europe and the Middle East. Earlier, he travelled to countries including Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands and the United Arab Emirates. Through the tour, India pushed discussions on trade, connectivity, investment and strategic cooperation.
Meanwhile, India and Italy continue to deepen ties through their Joint Strategic Action Plan for 2025-2029. Both governments now aim to expand cooperation across sectors such as defence, clean energy, technology, innovation and education.
Trade between the two nations has also shown strong growth in recent years. Business leaders from both sides continue to explore opportunities in manufacturing, mobility, infrastructure and renewable energy. Italian companies have steadily increased investment interest in India, while Indian firms continue expanding their presence across European markets.
Modi said his meetings in Rome would focus on strengthening long-term cooperation. He plans to hold talks with Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Meloni during the visit.
In addition, the Prime Minister plans to discuss the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, widely known as IMEC. The proposed route aims to improve trade and connectivity between India, Europe and the Gulf region through rail, shipping and logistics networks.
Modi will also visit the headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organization in Rome. Officials said the visit reflects India’s focus on food security, agricultural cooperation and multilateral engagement.
As diplomatic meetings begin in Rome, both countries appear eager to convert political goodwill into deeper economic and strategic collaboration.
