PM Modi Joins Global Leaders in Italy for Critical G7 Summit Talks

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Modi’s Schedule in Italy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Apulia, southern Italy, for the G7 Summit’s Outreach session. During his one-day visit, he will participate in discussions focusing on artificial intelligence, energy, and issues concerning the Africa-Mediterranean region. The summit which is hosted by Italian Prime Minister Georgia Meloni and attended by Pope Francis is taking place at the luxurious Borgo Egnazia resort. Modi is also slated to hold bilateral discussions with Pope Francis.

In his departure statement, Modi expressed enthusiasm for meeting global leaders and addressing critical global challenges to improve quality of life. He highlighted the significance of Italy being his first foreign destination in his third consecutive term as Prime Minister, reflecting on the deepening ties between India and Italy following Meloni’s visits to India last year, which he described as pivotal.

Summit Focus Areas

Modi emphasized that the Outreach session would prioritize discussions on artificial intelligence, energy, and issues in the Africa-Mediterranean region. The aim is to enhance cooperation between outcomes from the G20 Summit hosted under India’s Presidency and the ongoing G7 discussions, particularly focusing on key issues affecting developing nations.

The Indian Prime Minister also noted the success of the G20 Summit held in New Delhi last September, attended by many of the same global leaders gathering in Apulia. On Friday, Modi will be formally welcomed by Georgia Meloni, President of the Council of Ministers of Italy.

Global South and Russia-Ukraine Conflict

In her opening remarks to the G7 leaders, Meloni highlighted the significance of southern Italy as a venue, underscoring the G7’s commitment to strengthening dialogue with developing nations. The summit will be attended by leaders such as US President Joe Biden, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, French President Emmanuel Macron, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and European Council President Charles Michel.

Discussions are expected to focus heavily on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy already in attendance. While India advocates for diplomatic solutions, Sunak has urged robust support for Ukraine, announcing significant bilateral aid to address humanitarian, energy, and stabilization needs.

Sunak stressed the importance of innovative and decisive measures to assist Ukraine in countering Russian President Vladimir Putin’s actions. The UK has committed up to GBP 242 million to support Ukraine’s immediate and long-term recovery efforts.

India’s Position on Global Challenges

India’s Foreign Secretary, Vinay Kwatra, echoed Modi’s stance from September 2022, emphasizing that the current global situation does not support conflict. Kwatra highlighted India’s commitment to providing assistance to developing nations affected by conflicts.

In addition to India, Italy has extended invitations to leaders from 11 developing nations across Africa, South America, and the Indo-Pacific region. This inclusive approach aligns with the G7’s goal of fostering dialogue and cooperation with developing nations.

Strengthening Bilateral Relationships

Highlighting the strategic partnership between India and Italy, Modi stressed the importance of consolidating cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and Mediterranean regions. The summit provides an opportunity for India to strengthen ties with Italy and other G7 countries. Modi’s discussions with global leaders are expected to encompass economic collaboration, technological advancements, and geopolitical stability.

Modi aims to leverage the summit as a platform to enhance international cooperation and address urgent global challenges. The outcomes of these discussions are expected to contribute significantly to ongoing efforts aimed at promoting global stability and development.

Conclusion

Prime Minister Modi’s participation in the G7 Summit in Italy underscores India’s proactive engagement in addressing global challenges and fostering international partnerships. Discussions focusing on artificial intelligence, energy, and the Africa-Mediterranean region, alongside attention to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, underscore the summit’s importance in shaping the global agenda. Modi’s involvement reflects India’s commitment to playing a central role in global affairs and contributing to collective efforts aimed at achieving a better future.

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