Prime Minister Narendra Modi returned to New Delhi after concluding his visit to Italy, the final leg of his five-nation diplomatic tour, marked by a major upgrade in bilateral relations between the two countries.
India and Italy announced the elevation of ties to a Special Strategic Partnership, signaling deeper cooperation across defence, trade, technology, culture, and global strategic issues.
Key Agreements Signed
Both nations signed multiple agreements and MoUs covering:
- Agriculture
- Critical minerals
- Ayurveda
- Science & technology
- Mobility of Indian nurses to Italy
- Cooperation against tax crimes, money laundering, and terror financing
Defence, Manufacturing & Economic Cooperation in Focus
During joint statements in Rome with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, PM Modi emphasized combining Italy’s strength in design and precision with India’s scale, talent, and affordable innovation.
He said both countries will work on the principle of:
“Design and Develop in India and Italy, Deliver for the World.”
The leaders highlighted progress under the India-Italy Defence Industrial Roadmap aimed at co-development and co-production in defence manufacturing.
The two sides also agreed to deepen collaboration in:
- Shipping and ports modernisation
- Logistics
- Blue economy
- Advanced manufacturing
- Infrastructure
- Energy
- Space economy
- Maritime transportation
- Tourism and culture
Strategic & Geopolitical Alignment
PM Modi noted that India and Italy remain in close coordination on global issues including:
- Ukraine conflict
- West Asia tensions
- Terror financing
- Supply chain resilience
He reiterated India’s position that global conflicts should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.
Meloni highlighted strong complementarities between the two economies and identified major opportunities in critical minerals, agro-industry, defence, and infrastructure.
Cultural Diplomacy & Global Engagement
Both countries also announced the launch of the Italy-India Year of Culture and Tourism 2027, aimed at deepening civilisational dialogue and people-to-people ties.
During the visit:
- PM Modi met Italian President Sergio Mattarella
- Held delegation-level talks with Meloni
- Visited the Food and Agriculture Organization, reinforcing India’s commitment to global food security and multilateralism
- Received the prestigious UN Agricola Medal
- Interacted with the Indian diaspora and Italian artists in Rome
The visit marks a significant strategic milestone as India expands its partnerships across Europe through economic, defence, and cultural diplomacy.
