ROME — Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India and Italy have been in regular contact over the conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia, and that resolving disputes should rely on dialogue and diplomacy. His remarks came during a joint statement with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome on May 20.
Modi described terrorism as a major global challenge and highlighted a bilateral initiative against terror financing as an important example for the international community. He said India and Italy have been coordinating on developments in Ukraine, West Asia and other tensions, and reiterated that diplomatic engagement is the preferred path to solutions.
The prime minister also emphasized deepening cultural and civilizational links between the two countries. He noted growing Italian interest in Indian traditions such as yoga, Ayurveda, cuisine and art, and observed that ancient languages like Sanskrit and Latin stem from the same linguistic family — underscoring shared heritage beyond formal diplomacy.
To strengthen people-to-people ties, Modi announced a joint “Year of Culture” next year to mark the 80th anniversary of India–Italy relations. He praised the Indian diaspora in Italy as a vibrant bridge between the nations and welcomed the positive impact of the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement, signed three years ago, which has increased movement and cooperation between citizens of both countries.
Modi thanked the Italian leadership for its support across growing areas of engagement and formally invited PM Meloni to visit India, expressing confidence that bilateral ties will expand across political, economic and cultural fields.
Modi arrived in Rome on Tuesday as the final stop of a five-nation tour that included Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands and the United Arab Emirates. (ANI)
