Narendra Modi and Giorgia Meloni Explore Historic Colosseum After Diplomatic Dinner
Leaders hold informal discussions at Rome’s historic Colosseum as bilateral cooperation gains momentum in trade, defence and innovation
Rome [Italy], May 20: Narendra Modi held an informal yet significant meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome shortly after arriving in Italy on Tuesday as part of the concluding leg of his five nation diplomatic tour.
The two leaders met over dinner before visiting the historic Colosseum, where they exchanged views on several regional and global matters while discussing ways to deepen cooperation between India and Italy. Their interaction reflected the growing warmth in ties between the two countries and highlighted a shared commitment to expanding strategic engagement.
Sharing moments from the evening on social media platform X, PM Modi said he had an opportunity to meet Prime Minister Meloni soon after landing in Rome. He added that the leaders discussed a wide range of subjects and expressed optimism about further strengthening bilateral relations during formal talks scheduled later in the day.
Italian Prime Minister Meloni also welcomed PM Modi warmly on social media, posting photographs from their interaction in Rome. Calling him “my friend,” she greeted the Indian leader upon his arrival and later shared another image from their visit to the ancient monument, symbolising the cordial relationship between the two nations.
Prime Minister Modi also received an enthusiastic welcome from the Indian diaspora in Rome. Members of the community gathered at his hotel and greeted him with cultural performances showcasing Indian traditions. The Prime Minister interacted with several members of the diaspora and acknowledged their contribution to strengthening India’s image abroad. He also signed an autograph for a young admirer who presented him with a portrait.
Among those present was Svamini Shuddhananda Ghiri, who met PM Modi for the second time after an earlier interaction in 2021. She stated that the Sanatana Dharma Samgha had received official recognition as a religion by the Italian Parliament and appreciated the Indian government’s continued support for cultural and spiritual outreach initiatives in Italy.
PM Modi’s visit to Italy comes at a time when bilateral relations are witnessing strong momentum under the Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029. India and Italy have expanded cooperation across sectors including trade, investment, defence, clean energy, technology and innovation. Bilateral trade between the two countries reached nearly USD 16.77 billion in 2025, while cumulative foreign direct investment from Italy into India stood at USD 3.66 billion between April 2000 and September 2025.
The Rome visit is expected to further reinforce cooperation in key strategic sectors and provide fresh impetus to India-Italy diplomatic and economic engagement.
