• Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni have reviewed the progress of the bilateral Strategic Partnership and agreed to strengthen cooperation in global fora and multilateral initiatives, including the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.

Highlights of the meeting:

• Indo-Pacific Cooperation: Leaders affirmed commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, planning joint activities under the Indo-Pacific Ocean Initiative.

• IMEC Initiative: Discussed the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), focusing on infrastructure development to integrate Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

• Global Cooperation: Agreed to strengthen collaboration in global forums and multilateral initiatives, highlighting the IMEC as strategic amid concerns over China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

• Bilateral Ties: Emphasized expanding trade ties, including in clean energy, manufacturing, and technology sectors, with recent agreements on industrial property rights and energy cooperation.

• Defence and Security: Reviewed bilateral defence cooperation, anticipating joint naval exercises with the Italian aircraft carrier and enhancing defence-industrial collaboration.

• Cultural and Academic Relations: Acknowledged strong people-to-people ties, particularly through Indological studies in Italy, and initiatives like the ICCR chair on India studies at the University of Milan.

• Global Initiatives: Welcomed cooperation in energy transition through the Global Biofuels Alliance and a new executive programme for joint research and development in science & technology.

• Migration and Mobility: Called for early implementation of the Migration and Mobility Agreement to facilitate mobility of professionals, students, and researchers.

Other areas of cooperation between India and Italy:

• India and Italy share ancient civilisational links with significant trade interactions through Italian port cities on the historic spice route. 

• Marco Polo’s travels to India in the 13th century highlight early connections.

• Formal diplomatic ties were established in 1947, and in March 2023, bilateral relations were elevated to a ‘Strategic Partnership’, enhancing political dialogue and cooperation.

• Bilateral trade amounted to $14.25 billion in 2022-23, with Italy being among India’s top five trading partners in the EU. 

• Key exports from India include garments, leather, and iron ore, while imports from Italy include machinery and engineering goods.

• The India-Italy Military Cooperation Group (MCG) facilitates defence collaboration, reflecting shared security interests and exchanges.

Way forward

• Italy’s recent accession to the International Solar Alliance underscores its dedication to advancing green energy and deepening ties with India. 

• As a member of the EU, Italy holds potential as a strategic partner for India in a post-Brexit Europe, offering a favorable environment for Indian businesses. 

• To strengthen bilateral relations, both countries can collaborate on promoting shared values such as democracy, free trade, security, and adherence to the rule of law. This collaboration will require coordinated efforts across various sectors, influencing future planning and policy decisions.

(The author is a trainer for Civil Services aspirants.)