How Did PM Modi Appreciate Italy's Friendship?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi values the friendship with Italy.
- Warm birthday wishes were exchanged between the leaders.
- Both leaders committed to strengthening bilateral ties.
- They discussed resolving the Ukraine conflict.
- Focus on the upcoming AI Impact Summit.
New Delhi, Sep 17 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his gratitude towards Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for her heartfelt birthday wishes as he celebrated his 75th birthday. He conveyed his aspirations to enhance the burgeoning India-Italy relationship.
"Thank you, Prime Minister Meloni, for your kind wishes. I truly value Italy's friendship and eagerly anticipate its further enhancement," PM Modi shared on X.
Meloni's warm greetings included wishes for PM Modi's health and vigor, hoping for a brighter future for India while also expressing her desire to strengthen the bonds between their nations.
Accompanying her message, Meloni posted a photo with PM Modi on X, stating, "Happy 75th birthday to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His strength, determination, and leadership inspire millions. With respect and friendship, I wish him health and energy for leading India toward a prosperous future and enhancing our nations' relations."
On September 10, PM Modi and Meloni engaged in a telephonic discussion, reaffirming their mutual commitment to advancing the India-Italy Strategic Partnership. Meloni expressed her support for the upcoming AI Impact Summit scheduled to be held in India in 2026.
The Indian Prime Minister expressed gratitude to Meloni for her assistance in finalizing the trade agreement between India and the European Union (EU) and for fostering connectivity through the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEEC) initiative.
Both leaders exchanged insights on pressing regional and global issues. They concurred on the urgency for a swift and peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict. PM Modi reiterated India's unwavering support for efforts in this regard.
"I had an excellent conversation with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. We reaffirmed our shared commitment to deepen the India-Italy Strategic Partnership and discussed the importance of ending the conflict in Ukraine. I thanked PM Meloni for Italy's supportive role in finalizing the beneficial India-EU trade agreement and enhancing connectivity through the IMEEEC initiative," PM Modi noted on X post-call.
The Indian Prime Minister's Office (PMO) reported that the leaders reviewed and positively assessed various developments in their bilateral Strategic Partnership across sectors such as investment, defense, security, space, science and technology, education, people-to-people relations, and counter-terrorism.
They also reiterated their intent to further deepen their partnership in alignment with the Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-29.
PM Modi last met Meloni during the 51st G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada, where both leaders committed to fortifying the friendship between India and Italy.
Meloni also shared a picture of herself with PM Modi on X captioned, "Italy and India, united by a profound friendship." A video surfaced showing PM Modi greeting Meloni with a handshake and engaging in a brief dialogue during the summit.
In a post on X, PM Modi expressed, "I completely agree with you, PM Giorgia Meloni. India's friendship with Italy will continue to strengthen, yielding great benefits for our people!"
The camaraderie between PM Modi and PM Meloni has also been trending on social media, with their interactions igniting the hashtag Melodi.