Prime Minister Narendra Modi has officially arrived in Rome, Italy, marking a significant step in enhancing the India-Italy Strategic Partnership. This visit, which began on May 19, 2026, is part of PM Modi's broader tour across five nations. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the visit aims to script a new chapter in bilateral relations, emphasizing cooperation in various sectors. Upon his arrival, PM Modi received a warm welcome from Antonio Tajani, Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
During his time in Rome, PM Modi is scheduled to meet with President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Discussions will center on enhancing India-Italy cooperation, particularly with regard to the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). PM Modi expressed his intentions on social media, stating, "This visit will focus on how to boost India-Italy cooperation, especially focusing on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)." He also plans to visit the Headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), reinforcing India's commitment to global food security and multilateralism.
- Strengthening bilateral ties — The visit aims to deepen cooperation in trade and investment.
- Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029 — A comprehensive roadmap for collaboration across various sectors will be reviewed.
- Focus on economic corridors — Discussions will include the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, enhancing regional connectivity.
This visit occurs against the backdrop of a strong momentum in India-Italy relations. Both nations have been actively implementing the Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029, which outlines cooperation in multiple sectors, including trade, defense, and clean energy. Notably, bilateral trade has surged to USD 16.77 billion in 2025, with cumulative Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from Italy reaching USD 3.66 billion from April 2000 to September 2025.
PM Modi's visit is particularly significant as it follows his previous trip to Italy in June 2024 for the G7 Summit. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted that this engagement will further solidify India’s partnership with Europe. As India continues to strengthen its ties with the European Union, particularly in light of the recently concluded India-European Union Free Trade Agreement, this visit is expected to bolster trade and investment relations significantly.
