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- PM Modi Italy Visit Highlights: PM Modi arrives in Delhi, wraps up five-nation foreign visit
THE TIMES OF INDIA | May 21, 2026, 15:36:56 IST
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PM Modi Italy Visit Highlights: PM Modi arrives in Delhi, wraps up five-nation foreign visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Rome on the final leg of his five-nation diplomatic tour and received a warm welcome from members of the Indian diaspora, cultural performers and local supporters gathered at his hotel in the Italian capital. Soon after landing, PM Modi met Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni over dinner and later visited the iconic Colosseum with her, with the two leaders exchanging views on a wide range of subjects ahead of formal bilateral talks.
The atmosphere around Modi’s arrival reflected both diplomatic significance and cultural warmth. The Prime Minister interacted with members of the Indian community, signed autographs for children and witnessed special cultural performances organised in his honour. Italian artists performed musical pieces inspired by Indian classical traditions, including a composition based on Raga Hamsadhwani, while an Italian Kathak artist who had lived in India for 15 years expressed happiness at welcoming the Prime Minister through dance.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to conclude his five-nation diplomatic tour with an official visit to Italy on May 19-20 at the invitation of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The visit comes after a series of high-level engagements across Europe focused on boosting India’s global partnerships in trade, defence, energy security, innovation, mobility and strategic cooperation.
During the Italy visit, Modi will hold talks with Prime Minister Meloni and call on Italian President Sergio Mattarella. Discussions are expected to focus on strengthening bilateral trade and investment, defence industrial partnerships, maritime security, resilient supply chains, clean energy cooperation and technology collaboration.
Ahead of the visit, India’s Ambassador to Italy Vani Rao described the trip as Modi’s first bilateral visit to Italy, noting that previous visits were linked to multilateral events such as the G7 and G20 summits. She said India-Italy ties are “growing” and “deepening”, with both governments working to implement a five-year action plan launched after the two countries announced a strategic partnership in 2023.
Rao also highlighted key areas of cooperation expected to dominate discussions, including defence manufacturing, ports, mobility, talent exchange and energy security. She said India wants Italian companies to view the country not just as a market but as a long-term strategic and technology partner.
The Italy leg follows Modi’s engagements in Norway, where he held talks with Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre in Oslo. The two countries elevated bilateral ties to a Green Strategic Partnership aimed at expanding cooperation in clean energy, sustainable growth, green shipping, the blue economy, research, healthcare and innovation. Modi also welcomed Norway joining the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.
Throughout the multi-nation tour, India projected its focus on strengthening strategic partnerships with major global economies while positioning itself as a key player in supply chain resilience, maritime security, energy transition and emerging technologies.
Business communities in Italy also expressed optimism ahead of Modi’s arrival, saying the visit is expected to further strengthen already growing trade and investment ties between the two countries.
The atmosphere around Modi’s arrival reflected both diplomatic significance and cultural warmth. The Prime Minister interacted with members of the Indian community, signed autographs for children and witnessed special cultural performances organised in his honour. Italian artists performed musical pieces inspired by Indian classical traditions, including a composition based on Raga Hamsadhwani, while an Italian Kathak artist who had lived in India for 15 years expressed happiness at welcoming the Prime Minister through dance.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to conclude his five-nation diplomatic tour with an official visit to Italy on May 19-20 at the invitation of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The visit comes after a series of high-level engagements across Europe focused on boosting India’s global partnerships in trade, defence, energy security, innovation, mobility and strategic cooperation.
During the Italy visit, Modi will hold talks with Prime Minister Meloni and call on Italian President Sergio Mattarella. Discussions are expected to focus on strengthening bilateral trade and investment, defence industrial partnerships, maritime security, resilient supply chains, clean energy cooperation and technology collaboration.
Ahead of the visit, India’s Ambassador to Italy Vani Rao described the trip as Modi’s first bilateral visit to Italy, noting that previous visits were linked to multilateral events such as the G7 and G20 summits. She said India-Italy ties are “growing” and “deepening”, with both governments working to implement a five-year action plan launched after the two countries announced a strategic partnership in 2023.
Rao also highlighted key areas of cooperation expected to dominate discussions, including defence manufacturing, ports, mobility, talent exchange and energy security. She said India wants Italian companies to view the country not just as a market but as a long-term strategic and technology partner.
The Italy leg follows Modi’s engagements in Norway, where he held talks with Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre in Oslo. The two countries elevated bilateral ties to a Green Strategic Partnership aimed at expanding cooperation in clean energy, sustainable growth, green shipping, the blue economy, research, healthcare and innovation. Modi also welcomed Norway joining the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.
Throughout the multi-nation tour, India projected its focus on strengthening strategic partnerships with major global economies while positioning itself as a key player in supply chain resilience, maritime security, energy transition and emerging technologies.
Business communities in Italy also expressed optimism ahead of Modi’s arrival, saying the visit is expected to further strengthen already growing trade and investment ties between the two countries.
09:20 (IST) May 20
Rome sets the stage for diplomacy: Meloni hosts PM Modi for dinner ahead of bilateral meeting - watch
09:05 (IST) May 20
PM Modi shares glimpses of his meeting with Italian PM Meloni
09:04 (IST) May 20
'Looking forward to our talks': PM Modi meets Giorgia Meloni in Rome ahead of bilateral discussions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he met Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni over dinner soon after arriving in Rome, where the two leaders exchanged views on a wide range of issues ahead of formal bilateral talks.
“Upon landing in Rome, had the opportunity to meet Prime Minister Meloni over dinner followed by a visit to the iconic Colosseum. We exchanged perspectives on a wide range of subjects,” Modi said in a post on X.
“Looking forward to our talks today, where we will continue the conversation on how to boost the India-Italy friendship,” he added.
PM Modi is in Italy for the final leg of his five-nation tour, with discussions expected to focus on trade, defence, clean energy, strategic cooperation and technology partnerships between the two countries.
08:24 (IST) May 20
Watch: PM Modi presented with a painting depicting the ghats of Varanasi
08:21 (IST) May 20
'A very special moment': Indian diaspora in Rome thrilled after meeting PM Modi
A member of the Indian diaspora in Rome expressed joy after meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Italy, describing the interaction as a memorable experience.
“We are very much delighted with the way he came and addressed us and we are very happy and it is the first time we got the chance to meet him. It is a very special moment for us and he has conveyed the message of oneness and togetherness...” the diaspora member said.
Prime Minister Modi interacted with members of the Indian community and attended cultural performances after arriving in Rome for the final leg of his five-nation diplomatic tour.
08:03 (IST) May 20
'I stayed in India for 15 years': Italian Kathak artist after performing for PM Modi in Rome
An Italian Kathak artist who performed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s welcome in Rome expressed happiness after the cultural presentation organised in his honour.
“I have stayed in India for 15 years. I am feeling very good after performing to welcome PM Modi,” the artist said after the event.
PM Modi witnessed cultural performances and interacted with members of the Indian diaspora upon arriving in Rome for the final leg of his five-nation tour.
07:50 (IST) May 20
Sanatana Dharma recognised officially in Italy, says spiritual leader after meeting PM Modi
Svamini Shuddhananda Ghiri, who met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Rome, said the Sanatana Dharma Samgha has now been recognised as an official religion in Italy by the Italian Parliament.
“I am very happy and this is the second time we met him. We met him in 2021 and he also continued to sustain and to foster our mission,” she said.
“Sanatana Dharma Samgha is recognised as an official religion here in Italy by the Italian Parliament,” she added.
07:39 (IST) May 20
'Message of oneness and togetherness': Indian diaspora in Rome after meeting PM Modi
Members of the Indian diaspora in Rome expressed excitement after interacting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Italy.
“We are very much delighted with the way he came and addressed us and we are very happy and it is the first time we got the chance to meet him. It is a very special moment for us and he has conveyed the message of oneness and togetherness,” a member of the diaspora told ANI.
The interaction took place after PM Modi arrived in Rome on the final leg of his diplomatic tour across five countries.
07:16 (IST) May 20
Italian artist performs Raga Hamsadhwani to welcome PM Modi in Rome
An Italian artist who performed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s welcome in Rome said the musical presentation was inspired by Indian classical traditions and aimed at celebrating Indian culture in Europe.
“We played the traditional tune based on Raga Hamsadhwani and we made a composition together with all the musicians, creating this piece together for the Prime Minister of India,” the artist said after the performance.
Expressing admiration for Indian art and culture, the artist added, “I feel full of energy and motivated to spread more of the Indian values and the Indian arts in Italy and all over Europe.”
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Rome on the final leg of his five-nation tour and was welcomed by members of the Indian diaspora along with cultural performances organised in his honour.
07:14 (IST) May 20
Watch: Warm welcome in Rome - PM Modi meets enthusiastic crowd at hotel in Italy
07:01 (IST) May 20
Prime Minister Narendra Modi witnesses a cultural performance as he arrives at a hotel in Rome, Italy
07:01 (IST) May 20
PM Modi greeted by Indian diaspora, witnesses cultural performance on arrival in Rome
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was welcomed by members of the Indian diaspora and local supporters upon his arrival at a hotel in Rome, Italy, as he began the final leg of his five-nation tour.
PM Modi also witnessed a cultural performance organised in his honour, reflecting the enthusiasm among the Indian community ahead of his official engagements in Italy.
During the visit, the Prime Minister is scheduled to hold talks with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and call on Italian President Sergio Mattarella, with discussions expected to focus on trade, defence, clean energy and strategic cooperation.
PM Modi also witnessed a cultural performance organised in his honour, reflecting the enthusiasm among the Indian community ahead of his official engagements in Italy.
During the visit, the Prime Minister is scheduled to hold talks with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and call on Italian President Sergio Mattarella, with discussions expected to focus on trade, defence, clean energy and strategic cooperation.
05:20 (IST) May 20
Indian diaspora member says meeting PM Modi was 'very special moment'
"We are very much delighted with the way he came and addressed us and we are very happy and it is the first time we got the chance to meet him. It is a very special moment for us and he has conveyed the message of oneness and togetherness," says member of Indian diaspora.
03:57 (IST) May 20
PM Modi presented painting of Varanasi ghats during Italy visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was presented with a painting depicting the ghats of Varanasi during his visit to Italy, the final stop of his five-nation tour.
Artists also performed a traditional musical piece to welcome the Indian Prime Minister. One of the performers said, “We played the traditional tune based on Raga Hamsadhwani and we made a composition together with all the musicians, creating this piece together for the Prime Minister of India.”
The artist added, “I feel full of energy and motivated to spread more of the Indian values and the Indian arts in Italy and all over Europe.”
Artists also performed a traditional musical piece to welcome the Indian Prime Minister. One of the performers said, “We played the traditional tune based on Raga Hamsadhwani and we made a composition together with all the musicians, creating this piece together for the Prime Minister of India.”
The artist added, “I feel full of energy and motivated to spread more of the Indian values and the Indian arts in Italy and all over Europe.”
03:44 (IST) May 20
Italian PM Georgia Meloni welcomes PM Modi to Italy
03:44 (IST) May 20
PM Modi witnesses cultural performances as he arrives at a hotel in Italy
03:20 (IST) May 20
PM Modi visits Rome, Italy on last leg of five-nation tour; what's on agenda?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Rome for the final leg of his five-nation tour, where he is scheduled to meet Italian President Sergio Mattarella, hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and participate in diplomatic engagements.
In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Landed in Rome, Italy. I will be meeting President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and holding discussions with them. This visit will focus on how to boost India-Italy cooperation, especially focusing on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). The Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029 will also be reviewed. I will also be visiting the Headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and strengthening India’s commitment to multilateralism as well as global food security.”
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23:12 (IST) May 19
PM Modi lands in Italy
22:06 (IST) May 19
PM Modi discusses clean energy, digitalisation, trade with Nordic counterparts
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held separate bilateral meetings with the prime ministers of Iceland and Finland, as well as Denmark’s acting prime minister, focusing on expanding cooperation in clean energy, trade, sustainability and digital technologies. The meetings took place ahead of the 3rd India-Nordic Summit, with discussions centred on strengthening India’s overall ties with the three Nordic countries and reviewing the broader trajectory of bilateral relations.
20:51 (IST) May 19
PM Modi concludes Norway visit
"Concluding a very fruitful visit to Norway. Held productive talks with Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and participated in the India-Nordic Summit, where important decisions were taken to deepen cooperation in many areas.I thank the people of Norway, PM Støre and the Government of Norway for their warmth and friendship," he said in a post on X.
19:57 (IST) May 19
PM Modi departs for Rome, Italy, on the last leg of his five-nation visit
19:12 (IST) May 19
India and the Nordic nations have made exceptional progress in the last few years, says PM Modi
"India and the Nordic nations have made exceptional progress in the last few years. Trade ties have grown stronger and investment linkages have deepened significantly. One of the most significant outcomes of today’s India-Nordic Summit is our decision to elevate our ties to a Green Technology and Innovation Strategic Partnership. This will combine innovation with scale and talent, while advancing our shared commitment towards sustainability, trusted technologies and a better future for humanity," he said.
18:36 (IST) May 19
In 10 years, our bilateral trade has increased about 4 times, says PM Modi
"To provide energy and speed to our relations with Nordic countries, we formed this format eight years ago. I am delighted that in the last few years, we have seen special progress in our relations. In 10 years, our bilateral trade has increased about 4 times. Investment fund of Nordic countries is becoming an important partners in India's rapid growth. In the last decade, investment from Nordic countries into India has increased by about 200%. Rapidly increasing trade and investment have contributed to India's growth story. It has also played a very positive role in the economy of Nordic countries, and created thousands of new jobs,"
18:31 (IST) May 19
Democracy, rule of law and our shared commitment to multilateralism make us natural partners, says PM Modi in Norway
"Namaskar to all of you. I am delighted to have participated in the 3rd India-Nordic Summit today. First of all, I express heartfelt gratitude to the Prime Minister of Norway for hosting this Summit. I welcome all Nordic leaders here. Democracy, rule of law and our shared commitment to multilateralism make us natural partners," he said.
18:28 (IST) May 19
PM Modi speaks in Norway
"Our shared commitment to democracy, rule of law, and multilateralism makes us natural partners," he said.
17:52 (IST) May 19
PM Modi, PM Mette Frederiksen review the progress in India-Denmark cooperation
"PM Modi held fruitful talks with PM Mette Frederiksen in Oslo. The two leaders reviewed the progress in India-Denmark cooperation across water resources, shipping, food processing and clean energy.They also discussed ways to enhance collaboration in innovation, defence, industries and FinTech. The PM noted that the India-EU Free Trade Agreement is expected to significantly boost economic ties between the two countries," PMO said.
17:01 (IST) May 19
PM Modi, Iceland counterpart Kristrún Frostadóttir discuss ways to deepen India-Iceland cooperation
"PM Modi held a wonderful meeting with PM Kristrún Frostadóttir and discussed ways to deepen India-Iceland cooperation in sectors such as fisheries, geothermal energy, carbon capture and storage, sustainability, clean energy as well as blue economy. The two leaders also expressed confidence that the India-EFTA TEPA will further strengthen trade and investment ties," PMO informed in a post on X.
15:51 (IST) May 19
PM Modi Italy Visit: 'India deeply values the friendship with Iceland,' says PM Modi after meeting with PM Kristrún Frostadóttir
"Had a wonderful meeting with Prime Minister Kristrún Frostadóttir of Iceland. India deeply values the friendship with Iceland. We talked about ways to improve ties in areas such as clean energy, fisheries, sustainability, geothermal energy, carbon capture and storage and more. Iceland’s prowess in sectors relating to the Blue Economy is admirable. We are hopeful that the historic India-EFTA TEPA will give an impetus to trade and investment linkages as well," he said in a post on X.
15:27 (IST) May 19
PM Modi Italy Visit: PM Modi holds bilateral meeting with Danish counterpart Mette Frederiksen of 3rd India-Nordic Summit
Ahead of the third India-Nordic Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen as part of ongoing efforts to deepen India’s engagement with Nordic nations.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi also met with Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo and Iceland’s Prime Minister Kristrún Mjöll Frostadóttir during a series of diplomatic interactions focused on expanding regional cooperation.
The third India-Nordic Summit will bring together leaders from Norway, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and Sweden in the capital for high-level discussions on strategic collaboration and geopolitical coordination.
The summit aims to further strengthen ties between New Delhi and the Nordic bloc, building on the partnerships and policy frameworks established during the earlier editions held in Stockholm in 2018 and Copenhagen in 2022.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi also met with Finland’s Prime Minister Petteri Orpo and Iceland’s Prime Minister Kristrún Mjöll Frostadóttir during a series of diplomatic interactions focused on expanding regional cooperation.
The third India-Nordic Summit will bring together leaders from Norway, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and Sweden in the capital for high-level discussions on strategic collaboration and geopolitical coordination.
The summit aims to further strengthen ties between New Delhi and the Nordic bloc, building on the partnerships and policy frameworks established during the earlier editions held in Stockholm in 2018 and Copenhagen in 2022.
15:01 (IST) May 19
Watch: Green partnership in focus, PM Modi meets Danish PM Mette Frederiksen
14:56 (IST) May 19
PM Modi meets Danish PM Mette Frederiksen in Oslo
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in Oslo during his ongoing visit to Norway, as India continues to strengthen engagement with Nordic countries across strategic and economic sectors.
The meeting comes amid India’s broader push to deepen cooperation with Nordic nations in areas such as clean energy, green technology, sustainability, innovation, maritime cooperation and climate action.
Modi’s discussions with Frederiksen are also expected to build upon the growing India-Denmark Green Strategic Partnership, which has emerged as a key pillar of bilateral relations in recent years.
The meeting comes amid India’s broader push to deepen cooperation with Nordic nations in areas such as clean energy, green technology, sustainability, innovation, maritime cooperation and climate action.
Modi’s discussions with Frederiksen are also expected to build upon the growing India-Denmark Green Strategic Partnership, which has emerged as a key pillar of bilateral relations in recent years.
14:07 (IST) May 19
Watch: PM Modi meets Finnish PM Petteri Orpo in Oslo to deepen India-Nordic cooperation
14:04 (IST) May 19
PM Modi Italy Visit: PM Modi holds bilateral meeting with Finnish PM Petteri Orpo in Oslo
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo in Oslo during his visit to Norway.
The meeting is part of India’s broader outreach to Nordic nations, with discussions expected to focus on strengthening cooperation in technology, clean energy, innovation, digital infrastructure and sustainable development.
The meeting is part of India’s broader outreach to Nordic nations, with discussions expected to focus on strengthening cooperation in technology, clean energy, innovation, digital infrastructure and sustainable development.
13:30 (IST) May 19
Watch: PM Modi meets Iceland PM in Oslo as India steps up outreach to Nordic nations
13:29 (IST) May 19
PM Modi Italy Visit: PM Modi holds bilateral talks with Iceland PM Kristrún Frostadóttir in Oslo
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Icelandic Prime Minister Kristrún Mjöll Frostadóttir in Oslo on the sidelines of his engagements in Norway.
The meeting comes as India continues to deepen engagement with Nordic countries in areas such as clean energy, climate cooperation, innovation, Arctic affairs and sustainable development.
The meeting comes as India continues to deepen engagement with Nordic countries in areas such as clean energy, climate cooperation, innovation, Arctic affairs and sustainable development.
12:59 (IST) May 19
PM Modi Italy Visit: Norwegian PM says he respects India’s Russian oil imports; calls for more pressure on Moscow
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said he respects India’s energy needs and its historic ties with Russia while also stressing the need for increased pressure on Moscow to end the war in Ukraine.
Responding to a question on India’s imports of Russian crude, Støre said, “There are historic relations, and I respect that. India is a huge country, and it has energy supply needs...”
At the same time, the Norwegian leader reiterated Oslo’s position that greater international pressure is needed to push Russia toward negotiations.
“At the same time, Norway believes that to end the horrific war in Ukraine — which is killing people, causing destruction, and creating instability — more pressure must be put on Russia to come to the negotiating table and seriously work toward ending the war,” he said.
The remarks came during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Norway, where both countries discussed trade, energy, maritime security and broader geopolitical developments.
Responding to a question on India’s imports of Russian crude, Støre said, “There are historic relations, and I respect that. India is a huge country, and it has energy supply needs...”
At the same time, the Norwegian leader reiterated Oslo’s position that greater international pressure is needed to push Russia toward negotiations.
“At the same time, Norway believes that to end the horrific war in Ukraine — which is killing people, causing destruction, and creating instability — more pressure must be put on Russia to come to the negotiating table and seriously work toward ending the war,” he said.
The remarks came during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Norway, where both countries discussed trade, energy, maritime security and broader geopolitical developments.
12:22 (IST) May 19
PM Modi Italy Visit: 'No better time than now': PM Modi urges Norwegian businesses to scale up investments in India
Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on Norwegian businesses to expand their engagement with India, saying the current moment offers a major opportunity to deepen economic and investment partnerships between the two countries.
Speaking at the Norway-India Business and Research Summit at Oslo City Hall, Modi praised the participation of Norwegian companies in India’s investment initiatives and urged them to take the partnership to “new frontiers”.
“I am delighted that many of you CEOs have consistently participated with great enthusiasm in India's Vibrant Gujarat and other investor summits,” Modi said.
“We must now take this partnership to new frontiers by enhancing its intensity. We must accelerate our pace and set our goals significantly higher,” he added.
Addressing business leaders already operating in India, the Prime Minister said the timing was ideal for expanding cooperation across sectors.
“Those of you who are already associated with India, let me assure you that for the discussions and interactions taking place here today, there could be no better time than the present,” Modi said.
“Today marks a moment that presents a unique opportunity to make the right use of the right time,” he added.
The remarks came during Modi’s visit to Norway aimed at strengthening ties in trade, clean energy, innovation, maritime cooperation and strategic partnerships.
Speaking at the Norway-India Business and Research Summit at Oslo City Hall, Modi praised the participation of Norwegian companies in India’s investment initiatives and urged them to take the partnership to “new frontiers”.
“I am delighted that many of you CEOs have consistently participated with great enthusiasm in India's Vibrant Gujarat and other investor summits,” Modi said.
“We must now take this partnership to new frontiers by enhancing its intensity. We must accelerate our pace and set our goals significantly higher,” he added.
Addressing business leaders already operating in India, the Prime Minister said the timing was ideal for expanding cooperation across sectors.
“Those of you who are already associated with India, let me assure you that for the discussions and interactions taking place here today, there could be no better time than the present,” Modi said.
“Today marks a moment that presents a unique opportunity to make the right use of the right time,” he added.
The remarks came during Modi’s visit to Norway aimed at strengthening ties in trade, clean energy, innovation, maritime cooperation and strategic partnerships.
12:09 (IST) May 19
PM Modi Italy Visit: 'Countries believing in rule-based order must move closer': Norwegian PM after talks with Modi
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said countries that believe in a stable, rules-based global order need to strengthen cooperation amid growing geopolitical and economic uncertainties, following talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Oslo.
Speaking at the Norway-India Business and Research Summit at Oslo City Hall, Støre said he discussed with Modi the need for like-minded nations to work more closely together in response to increasing weaponisation of trade, diplomacy and critical supply chains.
“One thing that I have discussed with Prime Minister Modi today is the fact that countries who believe in a rule-based order, which is not static, it is always developing and kind of responding to what is happening around, but countries who believe to certain standards and certain stability in trade and geopolitics and how countries deal with each other, they have to move closer together,” Støre said.
Highlighting global concerns over strategic dependencies, he added, “They are outside there in the global community, key players who are weaponising certain key chains. Weaponising, to some extent, diplomacy, trade, value chains, and critical rare materials...”
The Norwegian Prime Minister also welcomed the outcome of Modi’s visit, saying both sides had concluded multiple agreements and strengthened political engagement.
“What I appreciate about this visit is that we have concluded today numerous agreements. Many of the key players from the Norwegian side are now engaged. The Norwegian government is very much committed to following up on that and deepening the political contacts,” he said.
Støre also noted that a Nordic-India summit would take place the following day as part of broader efforts to deepen engagement between India and Nordic nations.
Speaking at the Norway-India Business and Research Summit at Oslo City Hall, Støre said he discussed with Modi the need for like-minded nations to work more closely together in response to increasing weaponisation of trade, diplomacy and critical supply chains.
“One thing that I have discussed with Prime Minister Modi today is the fact that countries who believe in a rule-based order, which is not static, it is always developing and kind of responding to what is happening around, but countries who believe to certain standards and certain stability in trade and geopolitics and how countries deal with each other, they have to move closer together,” Støre said.
Highlighting global concerns over strategic dependencies, he added, “They are outside there in the global community, key players who are weaponising certain key chains. Weaponising, to some extent, diplomacy, trade, value chains, and critical rare materials...”
The Norwegian Prime Minister also welcomed the outcome of Modi’s visit, saying both sides had concluded multiple agreements and strengthened political engagement.
“What I appreciate about this visit is that we have concluded today numerous agreements. Many of the key players from the Norwegian side are now engaged. The Norwegian government is very much committed to following up on that and deepening the political contacts,” he said.
Støre also noted that a Nordic-India summit would take place the following day as part of broader efforts to deepen engagement between India and Nordic nations.
11:57 (IST) May 19
Watch: Glimpses from PM Modi's cultural evening hosted by Norwegian PM at Oslo’s Akershus Fortress
11:55 (IST) May 19
PM Modi Italy Visit: Norwegian PM hosted PM Modi for special dinner at historic Akershus Fortress in Oslo
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre hosted Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a special dinner at the historic Akershus Fortress overlooking the Oslo shoreline during Modi’s visit to Norway.
The evening featured cultural performances that highlighted the warmth of India-Norway relations and added a cultural dimension to the high-level diplomatic engagement between the two leaders.
The dinner formed part of PM Modi’s broader European outreach aimed at strengthening cooperation in areas such as clean energy, maritime initiatives, innovation and strategic partnerships.
The evening featured cultural performances that highlighted the warmth of India-Norway relations and added a cultural dimension to the high-level diplomatic engagement between the two leaders.
The dinner formed part of PM Modi’s broader European outreach aimed at strengthening cooperation in areas such as clean energy, maritime initiatives, innovation and strategic partnerships.
11:51 (IST) May 19
Ministry of external affairs on Monday slammed Norwegian press over questions on press freedom, saying that many people misunderstand India after reading reports published by "ignorant NGOs".
While addressing a press conference, MEA secretary (West) Sibi George engaged in a tense exchange with a journalist from Norway and underscored the extensive reach of India's media ecosystem.
While addressing a press conference, MEA secretary (West) Sibi George engaged in a tense exchange with a journalist from Norway and underscored the extensive reach of India's media ecosystem.
11:14 (IST) May 19
PM Modi Italy Visit: PM Modi to reach Italy on final leg of five-nation tour, business community eyes stronger trade ties
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to arrive in Italy on the final leg of his five-nation tour, with the visit expected to deepen India’s strategic partnership with Italy across multiple sectors.
Members of the Indian business community in Italy expressed optimism ahead of the visit, saying bilateral trade relations between the two countries are already strong and likely to grow further following high-level discussions.
Business leaders said they expect the visit to open new opportunities for cooperation in trade, investment and industrial partnerships as India and Italy look to expand economic engagement.
Members of the Indian business community in Italy expressed optimism ahead of the visit, saying bilateral trade relations between the two countries are already strong and likely to grow further following high-level discussions.
Business leaders said they expect the visit to open new opportunities for cooperation in trade, investment and industrial partnerships as India and Italy look to expand economic engagement.
11:14 (IST) May 19
PM Modi Italy Visit: 'Both governments are working on implementation': Envoy highlights growing India-Italy strategic partnership ahead of Modi visit
India’s Ambassador to Italy, Vani Rao, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Italy comes at a crucial time as both countries move ahead with implementing a long-term strategic partnership roadmap announced in 2023.
“The Prime Minister’s visit is very important. In 2023, both Prime Ministers announced a strategic partnership. Following that, a five-year action plan was prepared, and both governments are working on its implementation across various sectors,” Rao said in Rome ahead of Modi’s visit.
The ambassador’s remarks come as India and Italy seek to deepen cooperation in trade, defence, technology, clean energy, maritime security and industrial partnerships under the broader strategic framework agreed upon by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
“The Prime Minister’s visit is very important. In 2023, both Prime Ministers announced a strategic partnership. Following that, a five-year action plan was prepared, and both governments are working on its implementation across various sectors,” Rao said in Rome ahead of Modi’s visit.
The ambassador’s remarks come as India and Italy seek to deepen cooperation in trade, defence, technology, clean energy, maritime security and industrial partnerships under the broader strategic framework agreed upon by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
11:13 (IST) May 19
PM Modi Italy Visit: 'Relationship is growing, deepening': Envoy Vani Rao on PM Modi’s first bilateral Italy visit
India’s Ambassador to Italy, Vani Rao, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Rome marks his first bilateral visit to Italy and comes at a time when ties between the two countries are witnessing strong momentum.
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Rome tomorrow is the first bilateral visit by him. Previously he came for G7 and G20,” Rao said ahead of the visit.
Calling the trip an important milestone in India-Italy relations, she said the visit would provide an opportunity for both sides to review progress and chart a more ambitious roadmap for future cooperation.
“It is a very important visit because the relationship is growing, it is deepening and there is a strong momentum and a leader level dialogue is always a good opportunity to firstly review where we are and to be more ambitious about the future course of the relationship,” she said.
Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to hold talks with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and call on Italian President Sergio Mattarella during his May 19-20 visit to Italy.
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Rome tomorrow is the first bilateral visit by him. Previously he came for G7 and G20,” Rao said ahead of the visit.
Calling the trip an important milestone in India-Italy relations, she said the visit would provide an opportunity for both sides to review progress and chart a more ambitious roadmap for future cooperation.
“It is a very important visit because the relationship is growing, it is deepening and there is a strong momentum and a leader level dialogue is always a good opportunity to firstly review where we are and to be more ambitious about the future course of the relationship,” she said.
Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to hold talks with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and call on Italian President Sergio Mattarella during his May 19-20 visit to Italy.
11:13 (IST) May 19
PM Modi Italy Visit: PM Modi to visit Italy for high-level talks with Meloni, Mattarella on final leg of five-nation tour
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will undertake an official visit to Italy from May 19 to 20 at the invitation of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, marking another key diplomatic engagement between the two countries as both sides seek to deepen strategic and economic cooperation.
During the visit, Modi is scheduled to call on Italian President Sergio Mattarella and hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Meloni. Discussions are expected to cover a wide range of issues including trade and investment, defence cooperation, clean energy, technology partnerships, maritime security and global geopolitical developments.
The visit comes at a time when India and Italy are looking to strengthen collaboration across sectors such as manufacturing, mobility, innovation, supply chains and energy security amid shifting global economic and strategic dynamics.
Officials have indicated that enhancing business partnerships and encouraging greater long-term Italian investment in India will be among the major priorities during the talks. Defence industrial cooperation and collaboration in ports and maritime security are also expected to feature prominently on the agenda.
Modi’s Italy visit forms the final leg of his five-nation diplomatic tour and follows his previous trip to the country in June 2024, when he attended the G7 Summit hosted by Italy. Since then, New Delhi and Rome have continued efforts to expand bilateral engagement through high-level exchanges and sector-specific partnerships.
The visit is also expected to reinforce people-to-people ties and cultural cooperation between the two countries, alongside efforts to boost academic exchanges, technology collaboration and talent mobility.
During the visit, Modi is scheduled to call on Italian President Sergio Mattarella and hold bilateral talks with Prime Minister Meloni. Discussions are expected to cover a wide range of issues including trade and investment, defence cooperation, clean energy, technology partnerships, maritime security and global geopolitical developments.
The visit comes at a time when India and Italy are looking to strengthen collaboration across sectors such as manufacturing, mobility, innovation, supply chains and energy security amid shifting global economic and strategic dynamics.
Officials have indicated that enhancing business partnerships and encouraging greater long-term Italian investment in India will be among the major priorities during the talks. Defence industrial cooperation and collaboration in ports and maritime security are also expected to feature prominently on the agenda.
Modi’s Italy visit forms the final leg of his five-nation diplomatic tour and follows his previous trip to the country in June 2024, when he attended the G7 Summit hosted by Italy. Since then, New Delhi and Rome have continued efforts to expand bilateral engagement through high-level exchanges and sector-specific partnerships.
The visit is also expected to reinforce people-to-people ties and cultural cooperation between the two countries, alongside efforts to boost academic exchanges, technology collaboration and talent mobility.
11:12 (IST) May 19
PM Modi Italy Visit: Defence, ports and supply chains: India lays out roadmap for deeper Italy partnership during Modi visit
India’s Ambassador to Italy, Vani Rao, said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Italy will focus on expanding cooperation in trade, defence, mobility and maritime security amid a changing geopolitical landscape.
Speaking in Rome ahead of Modi’s visit, Rao said, “...the visit is aimed at some key areas of cooperation. First is to further increase the trade and investment between the two countries. Second, we are also inviting Italian companies to look at India for long-term presence and long-term business collaborations.”
She said defence manufacturing and industrial partnerships would be another major area of discussion during the visit.
“Defense will be an important area where we are going to see how we can boost industrial partnerships. The third will be mobility, and we will look at how to increase the flow of talent and knowledge between the two countries. Maritime security and ports are another area...” Rao added.
Highlighting growing concerns over global supply chains and regional stability, the envoy said both countries place significant importance on maritime security.
“In the current geopolitical environment, both countries attach a great deal of importance to maritime security. We are looking at strengthening our respective supply chains, building resilient trade partnerships, ensuring energy security, and also ensuring that the industrial ecosystems of the two countries become competitive globally...” she said.
Rao also stressed the need to broaden engagement beyond government-level cooperation.
“...we want to diversify the number of stakeholders in the relationship, meaning more industry stakeholders, academic collaborations, people-to-people linkages, and cultural linkages,” she said.
She added that India wants Italian companies to view the country as a long-term strategic partner.
“We want to see Italian companies and business stakeholders considering India as a long-term partner, not just as a market but as a country that can strengthen their competitiveness, as a country that can build on technology partnerships and benefit both countries,” Rao said.
Speaking in Rome ahead of Modi’s visit, Rao said, “...the visit is aimed at some key areas of cooperation. First is to further increase the trade and investment between the two countries. Second, we are also inviting Italian companies to look at India for long-term presence and long-term business collaborations.”
She said defence manufacturing and industrial partnerships would be another major area of discussion during the visit.
“Defense will be an important area where we are going to see how we can boost industrial partnerships. The third will be mobility, and we will look at how to increase the flow of talent and knowledge between the two countries. Maritime security and ports are another area...” Rao added.
Highlighting growing concerns over global supply chains and regional stability, the envoy said both countries place significant importance on maritime security.
“In the current geopolitical environment, both countries attach a great deal of importance to maritime security. We are looking at strengthening our respective supply chains, building resilient trade partnerships, ensuring energy security, and also ensuring that the industrial ecosystems of the two countries become competitive globally...” she said.
Rao also stressed the need to broaden engagement beyond government-level cooperation.
“...we want to diversify the number of stakeholders in the relationship, meaning more industry stakeholders, academic collaborations, people-to-people linkages, and cultural linkages,” she said.
She added that India wants Italian companies to view the country as a long-term strategic partner.
“We want to see Italian companies and business stakeholders considering India as a long-term partner, not just as a market but as a country that can strengthen their competitiveness, as a country that can build on technology partnerships and benefit both countries,” Rao said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s five-nation diplomatic tour concludes in Italy after high-level engagements across Europe aimed at strengthening India’s strategic partnerships in trade, defence, clean energy, technology, maritime security and global cooperation. From elevating ties with Norway to a Green Strategic Partnership to expanding economic and defence cooperation with Italy, the visit underscored India’s push to deepen ties with key global partners amid shifting geopolitical realities.
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