Johannesburg: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni briefly met on Saturday ahead of the opening session of the G20 Leaders’ Summit at the Nasrec Convention Centre in Johannesburg. The leaders shared a warm handshake and exchanged greetings, reflecting the growing closeness and strong personal rapport that have significantly deepened India–Italy relations in recent years.
The two last met during the G7 Summit in Canada’s Kananaskis earlier this year, where they reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen bilateral ties. Their relationship has also drawn attention for its warmth, highlighted when PM Modi penned a heartfelt preface for the Indian edition of Meloni’s autobiography I Am Giorgia, calling her an “extraordinary political leader” who blends “ideas and heart”. Meloni described his words as deeply touching, emphasising her respect and affection for India.
PM Modi and Meloni have maintained frequent communication, including a telephonic discussion in September where they reiterated efforts to deepen the India–Italy Strategic Partnership, support the upcoming AI Impact Summit in 2026, and encourage progress on the India–EU trade agreement and the IMEEC corridor. They also shared views on global issues and stressed the need for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict.
Their growing camaraderie—popularly dubbed “Melodi” on social media—continues to draw public interest, mirroring the strengthening diplomatic partnership between the two nations.
