In a gesture underscoring the deepening ties between two ancient civilizations, the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, warmly welcomed the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy, Mr. Antonio Tajani, at Rashtrapati Bhavan today. The visit marked a significant moment in the evolving partnership between India and Italy, both nations rich in cultural heritage and a shared legacy of intellectual and artistic contributions to the world.
President Murmu expressed her appreciation for the longstanding bonds between the two countries, shaped over centuries through trade, dialogue, and the movement of people and ideas. She noted with optimism that in today’s dynamic global landscape, India and Italy are forging strong collaborations in key areas such as emerging technologies, innovation, and defense, while also working together on multilateral platforms including the G20.
Highlighting the enormous potential for further strengthening economic ties, the President invited Italian companies and public sector undertakings to expand their presence in India. She emphasized India’s rapid economic transformation and the ambitious vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047, presenting a wealth of opportunities for industrial partnerships and joint ventures. In particular, she encouraged Italian green technology firms to explore collaborative initiatives with Indian industries to support sustainable development goals.
Reflecting on the growing momentum of this bilateral relationship, President Murmu mentioned the Joint Strategic Action Plan unveiled during the meeting of Prime Ministers Meloni and Modi in Rio last November. She described it as a forward-looking roadmap that would guide both countries in intensifying cooperation over the next five years.
The President also expressed satisfaction at the growing interest of Italian universities and research centers in building academic linkages with Indian institutions. She welcomed the idea of Italian universities establishing campuses in India, facilitated by the country’s new education policy aimed at encouraging global academic integration.
Both leaders shared a hopeful vision of the future, affirming that the strategic partnership between India and Italy is poised to achieve greater heights, fostering mutual growth, understanding, and friendship in the years to come.
