PM Modi, Meloni Boost India-Italy Cooperation in AI and Trade

India and Italy upgrade ties to a Special Strategic Partnership with focus on AI, trade, investment, IMEC and new technologies.

By Indrani Priyadarshini

on May 21, 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have decided to raise India-Italy relations to a Special Strategic Partnership. The decision came after talks between the two leaders. PM Modi said both sides discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between the two countries. The talks focused on technology, semiconductors, trade, investment and economic ties.

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India-Italy Focus on AI and Technology

India and Italy also discussed working together in new and emerging sectors. These include artificial intelligence (AI), critical minerals, space, and nuclear energy. Before the bilateral talks, PM Modi met Italian President Sergio Mattarella. The leaders spoke about trade, investment, and cultural relations between the two nations.

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IMEC and Strategic Cooperation

PM Modi said his visit would focus on improving cooperation under the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). The corridor is expected to improve trade and connectivity between regions. The two countries will also review the Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029. The plan is a roadmap for cooperation across different sectors.

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