Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hosted Prime Minister Narendra Modi for dinner and a visit to the iconic Colosseum before their formal talks aimed at enhancing India-Italy relations. According to NDTV Profit, Modi posted on X, "Upon landing in Rome, had the opportunity to meet Prime Minister Meloni over dinner, followed by a visit to the iconic Colosseum. We exchanged perspectives on a wide range of subjects. Looking forward to our talks today, where we will continue the conversation on how to boost the India-Italy friendship." The Prime Minister also thanked the Indian community in Italy for their warm welcome, stating "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."
PM Modi's visit to Rome focuses on enhancing India-Italy cooperation, with particular emphasis on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). According to NDTV Profit, Modi posted on X, "Landed in Rome, Italy. I will be meeting President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and holding discussions with them." The Prime Minister will meet with Italian President Sergio Mattarella and discuss ways to boost bilateral cooperation. As reported by MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on X, "This visit will focus on how to boost India-Italy cooperation, especially focusing on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). The Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029 will also be reviewed."
PM Modi interacted with members of the Indian community and witnessed cultural performances at his hotel. As reported by NDTV Profit, Modi witnessed colourful performances including Kathak, Kuchipudi and Bharatnatyam by Italian artists. The reception also included a soulful rendering of Indian classical music by Italian musicians, with the enchanting display of Santoor, Tabla, Bansuri and Sitar showcasing India's musical legacy. Modi also shared details of his interaction with Italian painter Giampaolo Tomassetti, who presented him with his work on Varanasi, noting that Tomassetti's "passion for Indian culture goes back over four decades."
PM Modi viewed a painting depicting the ghats of Varanasi, created by an Italian artist inspired by Indian culture. According to NDTV Profit, Modi noted that "Indian music is getting very popular in Italy. During the community welcome in Rome last evening, five Italian artistes performed the Hamsadhwani." The performers included Mr. Valerio Bruni (Santoor), Mr. Leo Vertunni (Sitar), Mr. Simone Mattiello (Bansuri), Mr. Francesco Gherardi (Tabla) and Mr. Nicolo Mellochi (Bansuri). Another artist who performed to welcome the Prime Minister said they had stayed in India for 15 years and felt very good after performing to welcome PM Modi.
During his Rome visit, PM Modi will also visit the Headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) to strengthen India's commitment to multilateralism and global food security. As reported by MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on X, "I will also be visiting the Headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and strengthening India's commitment to multilateralism as well as global food security." This visit follows PM Modi's previous visit to Italy in June 2024 to attend the G7 Summit. The Prime Minister had also visited Norway for the fourth leg of his tour, participating in the 3rd India-Nordic Summit before arriving in Rome.
