PM Modi Meets Italian-PM Meloni, European Leaders at G20 Summit; Talks ways to strengthen Bonds

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held productive discussions with several world leaders during the G20 Summit, focusing on enhancing bilateral relations and addressing global issues. On the sidelines of the summit in Rio de Janeiro, Modi met leaders from Italy, Indonesia, Norway, Portugal, Egypt, South Korea, and the European Union.

Among the key meetings was Modi’s conversation with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Both leaders emphasized expanding cooperation in defence, trade, security, and technology. Modi expressed optimism about the India-Italy partnership, stating, “India-Italy friendship can greatly contribute to a better planet.” The two leaders also welcomed the India-Italy Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-29, aimed at further strengthening bilateral ties. Meloni referred to the meeting as a “precious opportunity” to reaffirm the strategic partnership between the two nations.

Modi also met Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, marking 75 years of diplomatic relations between India and Indonesia. The leaders discussed enhancing cooperation in commerce, healthcare, security, and pharmaceuticals. Modi extended India’s full support to Indonesia, with both nations focusing on expanding the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

With Portugal’s Prime Minister Luis Montenegro, Modi discussed deepening economic ties, particularly in sectors like renewable energy and green hydrogen. The two leaders also explored strengthening defence relations and people-to-people links. Modi emphasized that these areas hold immense potential for future collaboration.

During his meeting with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, Modi highlighted the growing importance of the Arctic Policy in strengthening India-Norway ties. Discussions also revolved around boosting investment in renewable energy, green hydrogen, and innovation. The leaders also discussed the implications of the EFTA-India Free Trade Agreement for future cooperation.

Modi’s engagement with International Monetary Fund (IMF) Deputy Managing Director Gita Gopinath focused on India’s progress in addressing hunger and poverty. Gopinath praised India’s initiatives, while Modi reiterated India’s commitment to promoting food security and eliminating poverty.

The Prime Minister also interacted with US President Joe Biden, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. These discussions further solidified India’s diplomatic presence on the global stage.

Modi’s meeting with European Union (EU) President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted India’s continued collaboration with the EU on various global issues.

The G20 Summit served as an important platform for Modi to engage with world leaders, building on existing partnerships and addressing key global challenges.

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