The Deputy Prime Minister of Italy, H.E. Mr. Antonio Tajani, met with the President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, at Rashtrapati Bhavan on April 12, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the two nations' strategic partnership.
Both India and Italy are deeply rooted in ancient civilizational heritage, boasting a proud history of contributing to the world through philosophy, literature, and arts. Over the centuries, the two countries have been interconnected through trade and the exchange of people and ideas. In today's era, they are collaborating closely in emerging technologies, innovation, and defense, as well as working together on multilateral platforms such as the G-20.
A major focus of their discussion was bilateral trade and investment. The President noted that there is great potential for growth in this area, particularly given India's rapid economic growth and its roadmap for 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047. She invited Italian companies and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) to expand their operations in India, with a particular emphasis on manufacturing and co-production.
The President also urged Italian green technology companies to explore possibilities of cooperation and partnership with Indian industry. The Joint Strategic Action Plan announced during the meeting of Prime Minister Meloni and Prime Minister Modi in Rio in November 2024 serves as a blueprint for the next five years, providing a guiding framework for accelerated joint efforts.
Italian universities and research centres are also exploring possibilities of collaboration with Indian partners, with the new education policy having facilitated foreign universities to open campuses in India. The President invited Italian universities to consider opening their own campuses in India, further solidifying educational ties between the two nations.
The two leaders agreed that the India-Italy strategic partnership will reach new heights in the times to come. This meeting marks an important step forward in strengthening bilateral relations and promoting mutual cooperation between the two countries.