New Delhi: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni set foot in New Delhi on Friday, gearing up to participate in the anticipated G20 Summit slated to unfold on September 9-10 under the stewardship of India. Gracing her arrival at the airport was Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shobha Karandlaje, extending a warm welcome to the distinguished guest.
Meloni’s current visit marks her second significant trip to India this year, having attended the Raisina Dialogue’s eighth edition in March. That earlier encounter paved the way for substantial discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, culminating in a mutual agreement to escalate the India-Italy relationship to a strategic partnership level, aiming to foster deeper cooperation and understanding between the two nations.
The deep-seated connections between India and Italy can be traced back over 2000 years, as both nations, revered as ancient civilizations, have nurtured trade and cultural ties that have withstood the sands of time. Established in 1947, the diplomatic relations have seen various phases and are now burgeoning with renewed vigour and collaboration prospects.
As the global spotlight shifts to the newly inaugurated Bharat Mandapam at Pragati Maidan in the Indian capital, the world eagerly anticipates the discussions and resolutions emanating from this G20 Summit. Hosting this prestigious event marks a milestone for India, which assumed the G20 presidency on December 1 last year, orchestrating around 200 meetings in 60 cities nationwide to facilitate seamless preparations and engagements.