Is India a Natural Maritime Power? Italy's Envoy Applauds PM Modi’s Vision
Synopsis
Discover how Italy's Ambassador to India, Antonio Enrico Bartoli, praises Prime Minister Modi's transformative vision for India's maritime sector. With ambitious goals set for 2047, India aims to become a global maritime hub. Explore the strategic partnership between India and Italy in enhancing maritime collaboration.
Key Takeaways
PM Modi's vision aims to make India a global maritime hub by 2047.
Significant transformation in the maritime sector has occurred since 2016.
Increased rail connectivity enhances trade capacity and reliability.
India's geographical advantages position it as a potential maritime power.
Collaborative efforts with Italy open up new opportunities in the maritime domain.
New Delhi, Oct 29 (NationPress) The Italian Ambassador to India, Antonio Enrico Bartoli, on Wednesday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his unwavering dedication to advancing India’s maritime sector, calling his vision "strong, clear, and transformative."
In an interview with IANS during the India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai, Bartoli highlighted that since 2016, PM Modi has effectively positioned India as a significant force in the global maritime arena.
“In the last decade, India has undergone a remarkable evolution. The establishment of new ports, enhancement of coastal trade, and the fortification of logistics networks have contributed to a more efficient and reliable transportation framework,” he remarked.
Bartoli emphasized that improved rail connectivity to key industrial sectors such as steel, fertilizers, and mining has boosted India’s trade capacity and cargo transit, garnering international trust and attention.
“The Prime Minister's vision for 2047 is to transform India into a global maritime hub through technological innovation and economic advancement. These initiatives reflect India's pathway toward self-sufficiency and sustainable maritime progress,” he noted.
Commending Modi’s leadership, the Italian Ambassador stated, “PM Modi possesses a remarkable vision that he manifests across all sectors. Vision comprises objectives and precise benchmarks, and while motivating India to achieve these benchmarks, he also delivers results.”
Referring to India as a “peninsula in the Indian Ocean,” Bartoli remarked that it is only natural for the nation to leverage its geographical advantages to become a maritime powerhouse. “Aiming to rank India among the top five global shipbuilding nations by 2047 is both understandable and achievable. We are keen to partner with India in this field, offering our expertise to aid the initiative,” he affirmed.
Discussing India-Italy relations, Bartoli mentioned the “ocean of opportunities” in the maritime sector, as both countries have forged a strategic partnership. “Our prime ministers have pinpointed ten collaborative areas, one of which is connectivity — with the vision being the India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC),” he stated.
Point of View
The commitment to enhancing India's maritime sector under PM Modi’s leadership demonstrates a strategic focus on self-reliance and global competitiveness. The collaboration with international partners like Italy underscores the potential for innovation and growth in this vital area. As India positions itself as a maritime hub, it reflects a future-oriented approach that could yield significant economic benefits.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PM Modi's vision for India's maritime sector?
PM Modi's vision includes establishing India as a global maritime hub by 2047 through technological innovation and economic growth, focusing on sustainable development.
How has India's maritime sector changed in recent years?
India has seen significant improvements with new ports, enhanced coastal trade, and better logistics networks, making its transportation system more efficient.
What role does Italy play in India's maritime development?
Italy is keen to collaborate with India, bringing expertise to support initiatives aimed at enhancing maritime capabilities and positioning India as a top shipbuilding nation.
