Modi And Meloni Aim To Boost Defence Ties At G7 Summit Talks

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Italy, marked by his participation in the G7 Outreach summit, has opened new avenues for Indo-Italian collaboration. Invited by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Modi's trip is his first international engagement since securing his third term. The discussions between Modi and Meloni focused on bolstering defence and security cooperation, with an optimistic outlook towards enhancing defence industrial collaboration.

The Ministry of External Affairs released a statement highlighting the productive talks that took place. Both leaders expressed their anticipation for the upcoming visit of the Italian aircraft carrier ITS Cavour and training ship ITS Vespucci to India, symbolizing a deepening military relationship. Modi extended gratitude towards Italy for acknowledging the Indian Army's role in the Italian Campaign during World War II and shared plans to upgrade the Yashwant Ghadge Memorial at Montone.

The dialogue also covered the India-Italy Strategic Partnership, underlining the importance of continued political dialogue and reviewing the progress made. The leaders were pleased with the growing trade and economic ties, urging further expansion in sectors like clean energy, manufacturing, space, science and technology (S&T), telecommunications, artificial intelligence (AI), and critical minerals to fortify resilient supply chains.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Industrial Property Rights was recently signed, providing a framework for cooperation on patents, designs, and trademarks. This agreement is expected to facilitate innovation and protect intellectual property rights between the two nations.

Modi and Meloni also discussed their shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific region, looking forward to joint activities under the Indo-Pacific Ocean Initiative framework. They agreed on strengthening cooperation in global forums and multilateral initiatives, including the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.

The 'Global Biofuels Alliance’ coordination was another focal point, with both leaders welcoming the Letter of Intent for Cooperation in Energy Transition. This initiative aims to boost bilateral cooperation in clean and green energy. Furthermore, they expressed satisfaction with the new Executive Programme of Cooperation for 2025-27 designed to promote joint research and development in science and technology.

The longstanding people-to-people connections between India and Italy are set to be further enhanced by establishing the first Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) chair on India studies at the University of Milan. Additionally, both leaders called for an early implementation of the Migration and Mobility Agreement to facilitate the mobility of professionals, skilled workers, students, and researchers.

Meloni congratulated Modi on his third consecutive term as Prime Minister. Modi thanked her for the invitation to participate in the G7 Outreach Summit and appreciated Italy's role as the current G7 presidency holder. The summit not only underscores Italy's leadership within the G7 but also highlights its inclusive approach by inviting leaders from 11 developing countries across Africa, South America, and the Indo-Pacific region.

This meeting between Modi and Meloni signifies a pivotal moment in Indo-Italian relations, promising enhanced cooperation across various sectors. As both nations look forward to implementing their agreements and initiatives, this partnership is poised to make significant contributions to global stability and prosperity.