During the G20 Leaders’ Summit held on November 22-23 in Johannesburg, South Africa, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni shared a warm and brief meeting that underscored the strengthening ties between India and Italy. Their cordial interaction reflected the growing rapport between the two countries, which has seen significant development in recent years. PM Modi attended the summit alongside several other global leaders, taking the opportunity to engage in various bilateral discussions and cultural events during his visit.
The India-Italy relationship has been marked by a series of high-level exchanges and a personal camaraderie between the two leaders. Modi and Meloni last met in June during the 51st G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada, where they reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral ties. Their relationship has been characterized by mutual respect and shared values. In September, PM Modi praised Meloni as an “extraordinary political leader who combines ideas and heart,” likening her autobiography, "I Am Giorgia," to his own “Mann Ki Baat,” a platform for sharing heartfelt thoughts with the public. Modi’s preface to the Indian edition of Meloni’s book highlighted common civilizational instincts such as the defense of heritage, the strength of community, and the celebration of femininity as a guiding force — values that underpin the India-Italy partnership.
Meloni responded warmly to Modi’s words, expressing her deep respect and honor in an interview with the Italian news agency Adnkronos. She acknowledged the strong bond between their nations and reciprocated the sentiments expressed by the Indian Prime Minister. Their public exchanges have resonated positively with the public and social media, leading to the popular hashtag #Melodi that celebrates their friendly diplomatic rapport.
In September, the two leaders also connected via telephone to discuss strategic cooperation and global concerns. They reiterated their commitment to advancing the India-Italy Strategic Partnership. PM Modi thanked Meloni for Italy’s support in advancing the India-European Union trade agreement and enhancing connectivity through the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEEC), a key infrastructure initiative aimed at boosting trade and connectivity across the regions. Both leaders also expressed their shared desire for an early and peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, with PM Modi assuring India’s full support for peace efforts. Additionally, Meloni reaffirmed Italy’s support for India’s upcoming AI Impact Summit scheduled for 2026, signaling mutual interest in future technological collaboration.
The G20 meeting in Johannesburg coincides with an important phase for the Global South, as South Africa assumes the G20 presidency for 2025. This summit marks the fourth consecutive rotation of the G20 presidency through countries from the Global South, following Indonesia, India, and Brazil. This shift symbolizes the rising influence and leadership of developing nations on the global stage.
PM Modi’s visit to South Africa was met with a warm cultural reception at the airport, highlighting the strong historical and cultural ties between India and South Africa. This visit is Modi’s fourth official trip to South Africa, following his attendance at the BRICS Summits in 2018 and 2023, as well as a bilateral visit in 2016. His engagements in Johannesburg before the summit included a bilateral meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, where they discussed ongoing cooperation and shared priorities between their countries.
Further emphasizing India’s global outreach, PM Modi interacted with Indian-origin tech entrepreneurs in Johannesburg. He celebrated their achievements by meeting the winners of the “Bharat Ko Janiye” Quiz, a program aimed at strengthening the Indian diaspora’s connection with their homeland. Modi described this interaction as a meaningful experience that reinforces the bond between the diaspora and India.
In addition, Modi met with Bob van Dijk, Chairman and CEO of Naspers, a leading global internet and multimedia company, to discuss potential expansion of investments in India’s rapidly growing digital ecosystem. This engagement reflects India’s focus on attracting foreign investment to fuel its digital economy and innovation sectors.
The Prime Minister also participated in a cultural event featuring the South African Girmitiya song “Ganga Maiya,” which holds historical significance for the Indian diaspora in South Africa. Modi shared his emotional experience on social media, noting the special aspect of the song being sung in Tamil, one of India’s major languages. He emphasized how such cultural expressions have helped keep the spirit and heritage of India alive among overseas communities.
Overall, PM Modi’s presence at the G20 Summit and his various interactions in Johannesburg highlight India