Deeply appreciate Italy’s friendship: PM Modi thanks Meloni for birthday wishes

September 17, 2025

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday thanked his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni for her warm greetings on his 75th birthday, expressing confidence in further strengthening the growing India–Italy partnership.

Meloni’s Birthday Message

Sharing a picture with PM Modi on X, Meloni wrote:
“Happy 75th birthday to the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His strength, his determination, and his ability to lead millions of people are a source of inspiration. With friendship and esteem, I wish him health and energy to continue leading India toward a bright future and to further strengthen the relations between our nations.”

PM Modi’s Response

In reply, Modi posted: “Thank you Prime Minister Meloni for your warm wishes. Deeply appreciate Italy’s friendship and look forward to strengthening it further.”

Deepening Strategic Partnership

Just days earlier, on September 10, the two leaders held a telephonic conversation, reaffirming their joint commitment to the India–Italy Strategic Partnership. Discussions covered a wide range of issues, including:

• Conclusion of the India–EU trade agreement

• Promotion of the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEEC)

• Cooperation in investment, defence, security, space, science and technology, and counter-terrorism

• The need for an early and peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict

Strong Personal Rapport

PM Modi and Meloni last met at the G7 Summit in Canada (June 2025), where they reiterated their intent to build closer ties. Their camaraderie has drawn attention globally and sparked the social media trend #Melodi, highlighting the warmth between the two leaders.