Johannesburg, November 23: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in brief interactions with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during the G20 Leaders Summit being held in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Informal Exchanges on Summit Sidelines
The two leaders met on Saturday, November 22, shortly before the opening session of the summit at the Nasrec venue. They were observed exchanging warm greetings and handshakes in what appeared to be a cordial and friendly encounter.
This marked the second such interaction between the two leaders over the weekend. On Sunday, November 23, Modi and Meloni met again briefly, during which they discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation between India and Italy.
Growing India-Italy Friendship
The warm rapport between the two leaders reflects the strengthening relationship between their countries in recent years. Modi and Meloni previously met in June at the G7 Summit held in Kananaskis, Canada, where both expressed commitment to deepening India-Italy ties.
Their friendship has attracted attention on social media platforms, with observers noting the genuine warmth in their interactions. The hashtag “Melodi” has been trending online, combining their names to reference their diplomatic partnership.
Personal Connections and Mutual Respect
In September, Modi wrote a preface for the Indian edition of Meloni’s autobiography titled “I Am Giorgia.” In his foreword, he highlighted shared values between India and Italy, emphasizing themes of heritage preservation, community strength, and cultural celebration.
Meloni responded to this gesture by expressing deep appreciation for Modi’s words, stating through Italian media that she reciprocates the sentiments wholeheartedly and views them as testimony to the strong bond between their nations.
The Italian leader also sent birthday wishes to Modi on his 75th birthday in September, praising his leadership qualities, determination, and ability to guide millions of people.
Recent Diplomatic Engagements
In mid-September, Modi held a telephone conversation with Meloni to reaffirm their commitment to strengthening the India-Italy Strategic Partnership. During that call, Meloni expressed support for India’s upcoming AI Impact Summit scheduled for 2026.
Modi thanked the Italian Prime Minister for her backing of trade negotiations between India and the European Union. He also acknowledged Italy’s support for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor initiative, which aims to enhance regional connectivity.
Modi’s G20 Schedule
Modi arrived in Johannesburg on Friday, November 21, receiving a vibrant cultural welcome at the airport featuring traditional performances. This marks his fourth official visit to South Africa, following previous trips for BRICS Summits in 2018 and 2023, and a bilateral visit in 2016.
The G20 Summit in Johannesburg marks the first time the gathering has been hosted on African soil and represents the fourth consecutive year that a Global South nation has held the G20 presidency, following Indonesia, India, and Brazil.
Also Read | PM Modi, Italy’s Giorgia Meloni Share Warm Moment at G20 Summit in Johannesburg
