Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni shared candid moments in Rome on Tuesday, including a dinner meeting, a car ride and a visit to the iconic Colosseum, ahead of their scheduled diplomatic discussions on Wednesday.
PM Modi arrived in Italy on Tuesday on the final leg of his five-nation tour and was welcomed by Meloni.
Both leaders shared glimpses of their interactions on social media. Meloni, who extended a warm welcome to the Prime Minister, posted a selfie with him at the Colosseum and wrote, “Welcome to Rome, my friend.” PM Modi, meanwhile, shared multiple pictures from his visit, including snapshots from their brief talks and car ride through the Italian capital.
Sharing pictures of their meeting, PM Modi wrote that the leaders "exchanged perspectives on a wide range of subjects".
"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," he wrote.
The pictures of the Prime Minister with Meloni at the iconic Colosseum, illuminated against the night sky in the heart of Rome, have drawn widespread attention online, already garnering millions of views along with thousands of likes and comments.
PM Modi’s interactions with the Italian Prime Minister often draw widespread attention online, with social media users frequently using the term "Melodi", a blend of their names, to highlight their rapport. Meloni herself has used the phrase in her earlier social media posts.
The Prime Minister is expected to hold detailed discussions with Meloni and meet Italian President Sergio Mattarella to explore ways to strengthen India-Italy cooperation.
Upon his arrival in Italy on Tuesday, PM Modi wrote 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."
The Prime Minister would also visit the headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organisation and reaffirm India’s commitment to multilateralism and global food security.
According to an Italian government official, India and Italy are expected to reinforce diplomatic and trade ties during Modi’s visit by elevating their relationship to a special strategic partnership. Like several European countries, Italy has increasingly viewed India as an important partner amid ongoing geopolitical shifts.
The visit also comes months after the European Union concluded a long-delayed trade deal with India, seen as part of efforts to reduce dependence on the United States and diversify strategic partnerships.
PM Modi’s trip marks his first bilateral visit to Italy, following his participation in the G7 Summit in 2024 and the G20 Summit held in the country three years ago.
Source: India Today