modi meloni: Narendra Modi’s first foreign trip likely to be Italy; PM Giorgia Meloni invites him for G7 summit starting Thursday

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first foreign visit will likely be to Italy. Following his re-election, PM Modi has accepted invitation from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to participate in the G7 Summit, scheduled from June 13 to 15 in Borgo Egnazia, Apulia. According to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs, Modi conversed with Italian PM Meloni on Thursday, expressing gratitude for the invitation to the G7 Summit Outreach Sessions set to take place in Italy’s Puglia region. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni extended congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on securing a third successive term, affirming her commitment to further strengthening the relationship between Italy and India through continued collaboration with the Indian government.“Congratulations to Narendra Modi on the new electoral victory and my warmest wishes for good work. (It is) certain that we will continue to work together to strengthen the friendship that unites Italy and India and consolidate cooperation on the various issues that bind us, for the well-being of our nations and our peoples,” Meloni said.

Modi’s tenure has seen India emerge as a potent voice, particularly with his emphasis on positioning the nation as a champion for the Global South through the ‘Vishwa Bandhu‘ approach. Following Modi 3.0 assuming office, here are the significant upcoming events in the coming months.

G7 Summit 2024

Prime Minister Modi’s agenda includes the Group of Seven (G7) Summit 2024 in Italy, from June 13 to 15. Italy, holding the G7 Presidency for the seventh time, extended a formal invitation to Modi. The G7 comprises Italy, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the UK, and the US, with participation from the European Union. India’s presence at this forum underscores its growing global relevance. Italy took over the G7 Presidency on January 1, 2024, and will hold it until December 31, 2024.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the far-right leader of Italy, has received a substantial boost, consolidating her political authority both domestically and across the European Union. Her party, Brothers of Italy, secured a significant 28 percent of the votes in the European elections, enhancing her leadership position and impact.

Swiss Peace Summit

The looming Russia-Ukraine conflict directs attention to the Swiss Peace Summit on June 15-16, aimed at resolving the ongoing crisis. India’s participation remains uncertain, as it weighs the diplomatic implications. Ukraine’s peace plan, announced in 2022, seeks global support for measures including the withdrawal of Russian troops and accountability for war crimes. While India awaits a decision, notable attendees like US Vice President Kamala Harris signal the summit’s significance.

US NSA Jake Sullivan’s India Visit

Further cementing ties, United States National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan plans an official visit to India. President Joe Biden’s recent call to Prime Minister Modi underscores the shared priorities between the two nations, especially regarding strategic technology partnerships.

SCO Summit in Kazakhstan

Later this year, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit under Kazakhstan’s presidency will convene, addressing regional security challenges and fostering development initiatives. India’s active engagement within the SCO, demonstrated through recent ministerial meetings, reflects its commitment to regional cooperation.