Modi, Meloni hold wide-ranging talks on trade, defence, energy

Prime Minister Modi in concluding part of his five-nation tour held talks with Italian PM Giorgia Meloni on Wednesday. The two leaders had discussions on a variety of topics including trade, defence, clean energy and technology.

Modi also met Italian President Sergio Mattarella, and discussed about enhancing ties between the two nations on aspects including trade, investment, cultural linkages, AI, critical minerals, space and nuclear energy.

Modi had earlier said that his visit to Italy would mainly focus on strengthening cooperation between the two nations, with special attention on India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). The visit is also aimed at reviewing the Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029, a comprehensive road map for cooperation in various sectors.

India and Italy have in recent times witnessed enhanced economic engagement with bilateral trade growing up to €14.25 billion in 2025. They have also set a target of increasing the annual bilateral trade to €20 billion by 2029.

Italy is India's fourth-largest trading partner in the European Union and has identified India as one of the priority countries under its global trade strategy.

The Indian community in Italy, estimated at 1,86,833 as of January 2025, is the largest Indian diaspora group in the European Union. Over 5,100 Indian students are currently studying in Italian universities.

Earlier, Modi had received a grand welcome as he was accorded a ceremonial military honour when he arrived for talks with Meloni.