Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday received a warm and enthusiastic welcome from the Indian community in Rome during his visit to Italy, as cultural performances and interactions highlighted the growing people-to-people ties between the two countries.
Expressing gratitude to the Indian diaspora, PM Modi said in a post on X, “I am very grateful to the Indian community in Italy for the warm welcome in Rome last evening. Their deep affection for India and commitment towards strengthening India-Italy ties are truly commendable. The Indian diaspora continues to make our nation proud across the world.”
The reception featured several performances showcasing Indian culture, including Kathak, Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam presentations by Italian artists. According to Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, the event also included Indian classical music performances by Italian musicians playing instruments such as the Santoor, Tabla, Bansuri and Sitar.
PM Modi also highlighted the growing popularity of Indian music in Italy and appreciated the performance of Italian artistes during the community event. He praised musicians Valerio Bruni, Leo Vertunni, Simone Mattiello, Francesco Gherardi and Nicolo Mellochi for performing the Hamsadhwani raag.
In another post on X, the Prime Minister shared that Italian painter Giampaolo Tomassetti presented him with artwork based on Varanasi. PM Modi noted that the artist had been associated with Indian culture for more than four decades and had also created paintings inspired by the Mahabharata.
Earlier, PM Modi held informal talks with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni over dinner and later visited the iconic Colosseum. In a post on X, the Prime Minister said the two leaders exchanged views on a wide range of issues and looked forward to formal bilateral discussions aimed at strengthening the India-Italy partnership.
Prime Minister Meloni welcomed PM Modi to Italy through a post on X, “Welcome to Rome, my friend!” She later thanked the Indian Prime Minister for a gift of Indian toffees.
According to the MEA, PM Modi’s visit is expected to provide fresh momentum to the India-Italy Strategic Partnership. During the visit, the Prime Minister is scheduled to meet Italian President Sergio Mattarella and hold detailed talks with Prime Minister Meloni.
The discussions are expected to focus on enhancing cooperation under the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), reviewing the Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025–2029 and strengthening collaboration in trade, connectivity and strategic sectors.
PM Modi is also scheduled to visit the headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Rome as part of India’s continued engagement on multilateralism and global food security.
