Rome : India and Italy on Wednesday upgraded their bilateral relations to a Special Strategic Partnership, marking a significant milestone in ties between the two countries. The decision came after high-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, during which the India–Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025–2029 was also adopted, described by both sides as a practical and forward-looking framework for cooperation.
In a joint press statement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the increasing frequency of high-level engagements between the two countries reflects deepening mutual trust and cooperation. “We are elevating India–Italy relations to a Special Strategic Partnership. The India–Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025–2029 will provide a structured and time-bound direction to our cooperation,” he said.
Prime Minister Modi noted that bilateral trade is moving towards the target of 20 billion euros. He also highlighted that over 800 Italian companies operating in India are contributing significantly to India’s growth story.
He further said that technology and innovation form key pillars of the partnership, with vast potential in areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum technology, civil nuclear energy, and space. He added that work is underway on the India–Italy Innovation Centre to strengthen collaboration between startups, research institutions, and industry in both countries.
Recalling his meetings with Prime Minister Meloni over the past three and a half years, Prime Minister Modi said that under her leadership, India–Italy relations have gained new momentum, direction, and confidence.
Highlighting civilisational links, PM Modi said that engagement between India and Italy goes beyond formal diplomacy and reflects the meeting of two ancient civilisations. Referring to Rome and his parliamentary constituency Varanasi, he said, “Rome is known as the Eternal City, and Kashi has a similar identity. When two civilisations meet, discussions are not limited to agendas but also reflect history and future possibilities.”
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour in Rome. He also held delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
The Prime Minister was in Rome during the final leg of his five-nation tour, which earlier included visits to Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands, and the United Arab Emirates.