Prime Minister Narendra Modi has departed for Italy to attend the annual summit of G-7 advanced economies, scheduled to take place from June 13 to 15, 2024, in the Apulia region. This summit marks his first international visit in his third consecutive term, highlighting the importance of India's engagement with global partners.
The invitation extended by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni underscores the bilateral relationship between India and Italy, which has seen momentum and deepening cooperation over recent years. PM Modi expressed his satisfaction in his statement released from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), emphasizing the strategic partnership between India and Italy and their shared interests in enhancing cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and Mediterranean regions.
India's agenda at the G-7 summit focuses on key areas such as artificial intelligence, energy, Africa, and the Mediterranean region. These topics are crucial for India as it seeks to strengthen its global positioning and contribute to discussions on pressing global issues.
PM Modi will also use the opportunity to follow up on the outcomes of the G20 summit held under India's presidency last year, further advancing India's priorities on the international stage.
The G-7 summit itself is expected to address critical global challenges, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the situation in Gaza. Leaders attending include US President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who will participate in sessions focusing on the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
PM Modi's bilateral meeting with Italian Prime Minister Meloni during the summit aims to build upon the substantial progress made in bilateral relations and explore new avenues for collaboration.
Overall, India's participation in the G-7 summit underlines its commitment to global cooperation, addressing regional challenges, and advancing its strategic interests on the international stage.
