PM Modi Engages with Italian Leader Meloni on EU-India FTA and Ukraine Conflict

Modi and Meloni Discuss Trade, Ukraine, and Global Connectivity

Published: September 10, 2025, 07:28 PM

Prime Minister narendra Modi with Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. (file Photo)

New Delhi – Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a telephone conversation with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, centering around critical international partnerships and economic initiatives. The discussions explicitly encompassed the prospective free trade agreement between India and the European Union, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and the strategically important India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC).

Boosting India-EU Trade Relations

Premier Modi expressed his gratitude to Prime minister Meloni for Italy’s steadfast support in finalizing a mutually beneficial India-EU trade agreement.Negotiations for this landmark agreement are currently underway with the 13th round of talks taking place in New Delhi this week. Both nations recognize the potential for considerably enhanced economic collaboration. According to data released by the European Commission in early 2025, EU-India trade in goods and services reached €115 billion in 2024, highlighting the importance of formalizing this partnership.

Addressing the Ukraine Conflict

The leaders also exchanged perspectives on the protracted conflict in Ukraine, underscoring the shared desire for a swift and peaceful resolution. Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s commitment to supporting ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalation and establishing a lasting peace. India continues to emphasize the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations involved.

IMEEC: A Vision for Enhanced Connectivity

A key focus of the discussion was the India-Middle East-Europe Economic corridor (IMEEC), a groundbreaking initiative unveiled at the 2023 G20 Summit. Both leaders agreed on the necessity of accelerating the implementation of this ambitious project designed to foster greater connectivity between Asia, the Middle East, and europe. The IMEEC, which includes extensive road, rail, and shipping networks, is poised to transform regional trade and logistics.

IMEEC: Key components

Component	Description	Expected Impact
Rail Network	Linking India to the Middle East and Europe via a high-speed rail line.	Reduced transit times and increased cargo capacity.
Shipping Routes	Optimized sea routes connecting major ports along the corridor.	Lower shipping costs and enhanced trade efficiency.
Road Connectivity	Development of modern road infrastructure to complement rail and sea transport.	Improved last-mile connectivity and access to markets.

“We reaffirmed our joint commitment to deepen the India-Italy Strategic Partnership and shared interest in bringing an early end to the conflict in Ukraine,” Prime Minister Modi stated on social media following the call.

The Indian readout further detailed that the leaders reviewed the advancements in thier bilateral strategic partnership, encompassing critical areas such as investment, defense, security, space exploration, scientific collaboration, educational exchanges, people-to-people connections, and counter-terrorism efforts. Both parties conveyed a resolute commitment to strengthening this partnership, aligning with the Joint Strategic Action Plan for 2025-2029.

Understanding India-Italy Relations

India and Italy have maintained a robust relationship for decades, built upon shared democratic values and strong economic ties. Italy is a significant investor in India, especially in sectors like machinery, automotive components, and renewable energy. The current geopolitical landscape, marked by increasing global uncertainty, highlights the importance of strengthening these strategic alliances. Did You Know? Italy was one of the first European nations to support India’s membership in the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR).

Pro Tip: Stay informed about upcoming trade negotiations and policy changes impacting India-EU relations by regularly consulting official goverment websites and industry reports.

Frequently Asked Questions about India-EU Trade

• What is the primary goal of the India-EU free trade agreement? The agreement aims to reduce tariffs and non-tariff barriers, boosting trade and investment between India and the EU.
• How will the IMEEC impact global trade routes? The IMEEC is expected to create a more efficient and cost-effective trade route between Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, reducing reliance on existing choke points.
• What is India’s stance on the Ukraine conflict? India advocates for a peaceful resolution through diplomacy and respects the sovereignty of all nations.
• What sectors are likely to benefit most from the India-EU trade deal? Sectors like pharmaceuticals, automobiles, engineering goods, and agricultural products are expected to see significant gains.
• What is the significance of the India-Italy strategic partnership? The partnership strengthens cooperation across various sectors, enhancing regional stability and promoting shared interests.

What are your thoughts on the potential benefits of the India-EU trade agreement? Do you believe the IMEEC will reshape global trade dynamics?

Share your comments below and join the conversation!

What specific commitments where made by both leaders to accelerate the EU-India FTA negotiations?

Bilateral Discussions Focus on Trade, Geopolitical Stability

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held meaningful discussions with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni today, September 10, 2025, focusing on strengthening the India-Italy strategic partnership, accelerating negotiations for a comprehensive EU-India Free Trade Agreement (FTA), and addressing the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. The meeting, held[LocationofMeeting-[LocationofMeeting-to be updated], underscored a shared commitment to a rules-based international order and collaborative solutions to global challenges.Key areas of focus included defense cooperation, economic ties, and regional security.

Progress on the EU-India Free Trade Agreement

The EU-India FTA has been under negotiation for over a decade, facing hurdles related to issues like data localization, intellectual property rights, and agricultural tariffs. PM Modi and PM Meloni reaffirmed their commitment to overcoming these obstacles and achieving a mutually beneficial agreement.

Key Negotiation Points: Discussions centered on streamlining customs procedures, reducing non-tariff barriers to trade, and enhancing investment flows between India and the European Union.

Italian Support: Italy, currently holding the G7 presidency, is actively advocating for the swift conclusion of the FTA, recognizing its potential to boost economic growth and create jobs on both sides.

Potential Benefits: A finalized EU-India FTA is projected to substantially increase bilateral trade, estimated to reach[TradeVolumeEstimate-[TradeVolumeEstimate-to be updated]within five years of implementation. Sectors like pharmaceuticals, machinery, and textiles are expected to be major beneficiaries.

Recent Developments: Sources indicate that recent compromises on geographical indications (GIs) – protecting regional food and agricultural products – have paved the way for renewed momentum in the negotiations.

Addressing the Ukraine Conflict: A Shared Perspective

the conflict in Ukraine and its global ramifications were a central theme of the discussions. Both leaders expressed deep concern over the humanitarian crisis and the impact on global food and energy security.

Diplomatic Efforts: PM Modi reiterated India’s consistent call for a peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy,emphasizing respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Humanitarian Assistance: Italy has been a significant provider of humanitarian aid to Ukraine, and discussions explored potential avenues for India to contribute further to relief efforts.

Economic Impact: The leaders acknowledged the disruptive effects of the conflict on global supply chains and energy markets, and explored strategies for mitigating these impacts.

Sanctions & Implications: While India maintains an independent foreign policy, the conversation likely touched upon the implications of sanctions imposed on Russia and their impact on global trade.

Strengthening India-Italy Bilateral Ties

Beyond the FTA and Ukraine, the meeting provided an possibility to strengthen broader bilateral cooperation.

Defense Collaboration: India and Italy have a growing defense partnership, with collaborations in areas like naval shipbuilding and aerospace. Discussions focused on expanding this cooperation and exploring joint ventures in defense manufacturing.

technological Cooperation: Emphasis was placed on fostering collaboration in emerging technologies,including artificial intelligence,cybersecurity,and renewable energy.

migration & Mobility: Addressing issues related to migration and mobility, including streamlining visa processes for students and skilled workers, was also on the agenda.

Cultural Exchange: Both leaders highlighted the importance of cultural exchange programs in fostering people-to-people connections and strengthening mutual understanding.

Italy’s Role in the G7 and its Impact on India

Italy’s current presidency of the G7 provides a crucial platform for advocating for India’s interests on the global stage. PM Meloni’s commitment to supporting the EU-India FTA and promoting a more inclusive international order is seen as a positive advancement for India.

G7 Agenda: Italy is prioritizing issues like food security, climate change, and lasting development during its G7 presidency, aligning with India’s own priorities.

Multilateral Forums: Italy’s influence within the G7 can help amplify India’s voice in multilateral forums and promote a more balanced and equitable global governance system.

* Economic Partnerships: Italy’s strong economic ties with other G7 nations can facilitate increased investment and trade opportunities for India.

Real-World Example: India-Italy Defence Cooperation

The P-72A maritime patrol aircraft program exemplifies the growing India-Italy defence partnership.Finmeccanica (now Leonardo