The announcement marks a significant expansion of diplomatic engagement between the two nations, with both leaders affirming that India–Italy relations are now positioned to realise their full potential. Alongside the elevation of ties, Prime Minister Modi announced the India–Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025–2029, describing it as a practical and future-oriented framework designed to guide cooperation in the coming years. He stated that the partnership will be advanced in a time-bound manner, underscoring the structured approach adopted by both sides.
Addressing the media, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the strengthening economic relationship between the two countries, noting that bilateral trade is moving towards a target of 20 billion euros. He also stated that more than 400 Italian companies operating in India are actively contributing to India’s economic growth and development trajectory.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, beginning the joint press briefing, confirmed that India and Italy have officially elevated their relations to a Special Strategic Partnership, describing it as the highest level ever achieved in bilateral ties. She said the relationship is now closer than ever and fully capable of unlocking its complete potential.
Meloni attributed the progress in relations to her seven meetings with Prime Minister Modi over the past three and a half years, stating that their consistent engagement has helped build a relationship grounded in trust, respect, and direct communication. She also praised Modi’s leadership, vision, and pragmatic approach, while noting his continued popularity in India after years in office.
During the press interaction, both leaders reaffirmed the shared ambition to significantly expand trade and economic cooperation. Meloni announced a joint objective to increase bilateral trade from 14 billion euros to 20 billion euros by 2029. She stated that this ambitious target could be achieved through strengthened cooperation and by leveraging opportunities arising from the Free Trade Agreement between India and the European Union.
Meloni also announced discussions on the promotion of the Innovate India Initiative, which will lead to the establishment of a centre in New Delhi. The proposed centre is expected to strengthen collaboration between talent pools, innovation ecosystems, startups, enterprises, universities, and research institutions from both countries.
The elevation of India–Italy relations to a Special Strategic Partnership, combined with a structured action plan and ambitious trade targets, signals a decisive step toward deeper strategic, economic, and technological cooperation between the two nations.
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