PM Modi and Italian PM Conte during virtual summit
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Italian counterpart Giuseppe Conte on Friday comprehensively reviewed the broad framework of the bilateral relationship and also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen cooperation against common global challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic.
The two leaders held a virtual bilateral summit on Friday and discussed a wide range of issues including political, economic, scientific & technological, space and defence cooperation.
The two prime ministers underscored the need to further expand defence engagement through greater two-way collaboration and technology cooperation, co-development and co-production, by expediting discussions through the Joint Defence Committee and Military Cooperation Group.
They recognised the opportunity to consolidate defence relations with the aim of enhancing the effectiveness of peacekeeping activities within the framework of the United Nations.
On regional and international issues, the two sides agreed to coordinate closely at multilateral fora especially G-20.
Italy will assume the Presidency of G-20 in December 2021 followed by India in 2022.
Together, India and Italy will be part of the G20 Troika from December, 2020.
Italian prime minister thanked India for extending support to Italy during the pandemic by supplying medicines and personal protection equipment (PPE).
The two leaders concurred that the Covid-19 pandemic calls for an inclusive multilateral approach to health protection, especially in the framework of the United Nations and the World Health Organization.
Mr Modi welcomed Italy’s decision to join International Solar Alliance (ISA) as soon as the ratification process is completed.
During their virtual meeting, PM Modi recalled the 2018 visit of Prof Conte to India and appreciated the rapid growth in India-Italy relationship in recent past.
Italian prime minister extended invitation to Prime Minister Modi to visit Italy as soon as conditions permit.
A total of 15 Memorandum of Understandings and agreements in various sectors including energy, fisheries, ship building, design among others were signed coinciding with the Summit.
