Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni captured international attention with a warm interaction at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg. Their meeting, preceding the main sessions, served as a powerful symbol of the increasingly close ties between India and Italy, fueled by mutual admiration and a shared vision. The dynamic between the two leaders has not gone unnoticed, generating significant public interest online under the #Melodi banner.
This latest encounter follows previous high-level meetings, including their June rendezvous at the G7 Summit, where they reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral relations. PM Modi’s personal endorsement of Meloni as an “extraordinary political leader” who “combines ideas and heart,” alongside his reflections on shared values in his preface to her book – such as defending heritage and the strength of community – highlights a deep connection. He specifically mentioned “celebration of femininity as a guiding force” as a shared instinct.
Meloni has expressed profound respect for PM Modi, stating his words were deeply moving and that she reciprocated his sentiments, underscoring the robust bond between their nations. She further praised his leadership, citing his strength and determination as inspirational. This robust personal diplomacy is paralleled by progress in strategic cooperation, including Italy’s backing for the India-EU trade agreement and the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. Their discussions also covered global peace, with both leaders agreeing on the need for a swift and peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, and Italy reaffirming its support for India’s AI Impact Summit.