Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on the sidelines of the 2025 G20 Summit in Johannesburg, marking a significant moment in the deepening partnership between India and Italy. Their discussions covered a broad spectrum of strategic areas including trade, investment, defence, innovation, artificial intelligence, space exploration, and education, reflecting a mutual commitment to enhancing bilateral ties.

One of the key highlights of their meeting was the launch of a Joint Initiative aimed at combating the financing of terrorism. This initiative not only demonstrates the two nations' shared dedication to global security but also bolsters cooperation across multilateral platforms such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the Global Counter Terrorism Forum (GCTF). The Italian Prime Minister expressed solidarity with India following a recent terror incident in Delhi, reiterating Italy’s firm resolve to work closely with India against terrorism.

Beyond security, the leaders reviewed the progress under the India-Italy Strategic Partnership, showcasing robust developments in trade and investment, defence collaborations, technological advancements, and cultural and educational exchanges. Italy’s support for the timely conclusion of a mutually beneficial India-European Union Free Trade Agreement was reiterated, along with optimism surrounding India's upcoming AI Impact Summit scheduled for 2026.

Trade between the two countries has been steadily growing, reaching approximately $15 billion in the fiscal year 2023-24, supported by strong industrial and technological cooperation. Italian investments in India have spanned sectors including manufacturing, infrastructure, fashion, automotive components, and renewable energy, highlighting the extensive economic interlinkages.

This bilateral engagement at the G20 summit underscores the vibration of a dynamic and evolving partnership, as both leaders expressed their commitment to sustaining a fruitful dialogue and collaboration on global platforms, grounded in shared democratic values and sustainable development goals.

The Modi-Meloni meeting at the G20 Summit reinforced the growing India-Italy strategic partnership with concrete cooperation steps against terrorism, a strong economic agenda, and a roadmap for enhanced collaboration in cutting-edge sectors like AI and space, offering promising prospects for both nations and their global footprint.