Modi and Meloni Strengthen India-Italy Relations at G7 Summit

During the G7 Summit held in Kananaskis, Canada, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met to discuss and reaffirm their nations' burgeoning ties. This meeting, which occurred on June 18, 2025, is significant as it marks Modi's sixth consecutive appearance at the G7 and his first visit to Canada in a decade, reflecting the growing geopolitical importance of the India-Italy relationship.

Both leaders greeted each other with a handshake and shared a brief conversation, highlighting their mutual commitment to enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including sustainable development, energy, and industry. "Italy and India, linked by a great friendship," Meloni tweeted post-meeting, to which Modi responded, "Fully agree with you, PM Giorgia Meloni. India’s friendship with Italy will continue to get stronger, greatly benefitting our people!" Their interactions have not only solidified bilateral relations but have also captured the public's attention through social media, with their friendly exchanges becoming viral moments.

Historically, India and Italy have maintained diplomatic relations since 1947, and recent years have seen a marked increase in collaboration, particularly in areas such as trade, cultural exchanges, and technology. According to the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, bilateral trade between the two countries reached €9.4 billion in 2022, marking a significant increase from previous years. This economic partnership is underscored by Italy's interest in India's robust economic growth and India's ambition to enhance its presence in European markets.

Experts have noted that the meeting at the G7 signifies more than just a reaffirmation of friendship. Dr. Laura Bianchi, a professor of International Relations at the University of Milan, emphasizes that this meeting could potentially lead to more formal agreements on climate change initiatives and technology transfers. She stated, "Both countries are at a critical juncture where collaboration on sustainable development can yield significant benefits, especially in renewable energy sectors."

Furthermore, the recent election of Giorgia Meloni, Italy's first woman Prime Minister, has led to a renewed focus on international alliances. Political analyst Marco Rossi noted, "Meloni’s government is keen on forging stronger ties with countries like India to counterbalance its traditional alliances within the European Union. This meeting with Modi is a strategic move to reinforce Italy's foreign policy objectives."

The implications of this growing relationship extend beyond economic benefits. As both nations face challenges posed by climate change and global economic instability, collaboration on environmental policies and sustainable practices is crucial. The World Bank has indicated that investments in sustainable infrastructure and energy are essential for both nations' long-term economic resilience.

Looking ahead, as India continues to position itself as a global leader and Italy seeks to enhance its influence on the world stage, the partnership forged at the G7 could lead to more significant collaborative efforts. Analysts predict that future summits and international forums will see Italy and India presenting a united front on key issues such as climate policy, trade agreements, and technological innovation.

In conclusion, the informal meeting between Prime Ministers Modi and Meloni at the G7 Summit symbolizes a pivotal moment in India-Italy relations, showcasing a commitment to mutual growth and cooperation. The world will be watching closely as these two nations embark on a path of strengthened collaboration, with the potential for significant global impact.