Rome, May 20 — Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced that Italy and India will work together to further develop the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and declared 2027 the Italy–India Year of Culture and Tourism during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Rome.
Speaking alongside PM Modi at a joint press event during the final stop of his five-nation tour, Meloni described IMEC as a major infrastructure and economic initiative that can strengthen trade, investment and supply-chain resilience between Europe, the Middle East and India. First unveiled at the 2023 G20 summit, IMEC comprises an Eastern Corridor linking India and the Gulf and a Northern Corridor connecting the Gulf to Europe, incorporating rail, ship-rail transit and road routes.
Meloni said both countries believe in the corridor’s potential to open new opportunities for businesses and deepen economic ties. She emphasized the importance of stronger interconnections across the regions to boost commerce and foster more resilient value chains.
Beyond economic cooperation, Meloni stressed that India and Italy share common views on major global issues, including international stability, rules-based order, economic security, resilient supply chains, and the promotion of peace and inclusive development. The leaders discussed ongoing geopolitical challenges, including the war in Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East, underscoring support for diplomatic solutions and lasting peace.
Cultural diplomacy was highlighted as a key component of the bilateral relationship. Meloni announced that 2027 will be observed by both countries as the Year of Culture and Tourism to promote people-to-people exchanges, enhance mutual understanding between two long-standing civilizations, and strengthen cultural ties that complement political and economic cooperation.
Noting a geographic and strategic affinity, Meloni pointed out that Italy and India are both peninsulas—Italy in the Mediterranean and India projecting into the Indo-Pacific—giving them a natural alignment to support global connectivity. She reiterated Italy’s commitment to playing an active role in international affairs and working closely with India on connectivity, stability and multilateral cooperation to address emerging global challenges.
On maritime security, Meloni affirmed the shared commitment to freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific and advocated for a free, open and inclusive regional order. She said Italy and India can work together to contribute to peace and stability in critical regions.
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Rome as the last stop in his tour following visits to Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands and the United Arab Emirates. The announcements in Rome mark a step forward in strengthening strategic, economic and cultural links between India and Italy.
