Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in significant diplomatic dialogues on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Johannesburg on Sunday, holding separate meetings with his Italian and Japanese counterparts to strengthen strategic partnerships.
India-Italy Strategic Partnership Gains Momentum
During his meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the two leaders explored multiple avenues to enhance bilateral relations. The discussions comprehensively covered commerce, investment, technology, artificial intelligence, space, defence, and security.
A major outcome of this meeting was the formal adoption of the India-Italy Joint Initiative to Counter Financing of Terrorism, which underscores a shared global commitment to combatting terrorism.
Prime Minister Modi expressed his satisfaction with the growing partnership, stating on social media platform X, "Had a very good meeting with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The India-Italy Strategic Partnership is growing from strength to strength, greatly benefitting the people of our nations."
Progress on Strategic Action Plan and AI Leadership
According to Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, both leaders were pleased with the advancements in the Joint Strategic Action Plan for 2025-29, a strategy expected to deliver substantial economic benefits to both countries.
In a significant show of support, Prime Minister Meloni endorsed the AI Summit that India is scheduled to host in 2026. The economic relationship between the nations is robust, with bilateral trade estimated at $15 billion for the 2023-2024 period. Furthermore, Italian Foreign Direct Investment into India has reached a cumulative $4 billion since the year 2000.
Reinforcing the India-Japan Special Partnership
In a separate meeting, PM Modi convened with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Their talks were centered on injecting fresh momentum into the bilateral relationship. Key areas of discussion included innovation, defence cooperation, and talent mobility.
PM Modi highlighted the importance of this alliance in a post on X, noting, "Had a productive meeting with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi of Japan... A strong India-Japan partnership is vital for a better planet." The leaders also explored ways to enhance trade ties between the two economic powerhouses.
A Foundation for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific
The MEA, in a released statement, confirmed that the leaders reaffirmed the strength of the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership. This partnership is built upon a foundation of shared values, historical connections, and a mutual commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Both leaders pledged to deepen this crucial partnership to foster regional and global peace, prosperity, and stability. The dialogue also extended to collaborative opportunities in strategic sectors and an exchange of perspectives on pressing regional and global issues.
