Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday called on Italian President Sergio Mattarella at the Quirinale Presidential Palace in Rome and discussed ways to further strengthen the India-Italy strategic partnership.
During the meeting, PM Modi thanked President Mattarella for his support and leadership in advancing bilateral relations between the two countries.
The two leaders noted the growing momentum in India-Italy ties and expressed satisfaction over expanding cooperation across sectors including trade and investment, science and technology, research and innovation, defence and security, space, energy, artificial intelligence, critical technologies, education, culture and people-to-people exchanges.
They also exchanged views on emerging technologies and developments in the field of artificial intelligence.
The leaders underlined the importance of an early conclusion of the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement, stating that the pact would provide fresh momentum to economic and strategic cooperation between India and Europe.
PM Modi and President Mattarella also discussed the significance of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) in strengthening maritime security, digital connectivity and energy supply chains.
The two sides further exchanged views on regional and global developments, including conflicts in West Asia and Europe.
They reiterated their shared commitment towards upholding international law, freedom of navigation and peaceful resolution of disputes.
Prime Minister Modi thanked the Italian President for the warm hospitality extended during the visit and invited him to visit India at a mutually convenient time.
The meeting took place during the final leg of PM Modi’s five-nation tour, which included visits to Norway, Sweden, Netherlands and the United Arab Emirates.
