External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar is on an Official Visit to Italy from 24-26th November, 2024. He was welcomed in Rome by the Indian Ambassador to Italy H.E. Vani Rao and other officials from the Foreign Ministry.
Highlights of the Visit
During the visit, the External Affairs Minister inaugurated the new Chancery of the Embassy of India in Rome. He mentioned that the opening of a new premise is always a very important occasion for any relationship. Taking to his X (Twitter) handle, Dr. Jaishankar stated “Pleased to inaugurate the new Chancery of the Embassy of India in Rome today. It befits the continued expansion of India-Italy partnership in recent years. Will also help us serve better the Indian community in Italy”.
Speaking at the inauguration of the new premises of the Embassy of India in Italy, Dr. Jaishankar mentioned that the frequent interactions between the leaders of the two countries have furthered the relations to greater heights thereby deepening cooperation. He remarked that “it is also a reflection of the commitment and vision of our leaders today in taking forward the ties. There is a convergence in our world views, a synergy in our endeavours in addressing global and regional issues and definitely a new enthusiasm for developing our bilateral ties. India’s growing engagement with Europe, and particularly to Italy which we see both as a very influential European and Mediterranean country, certainly reinforce each other”.
He reiterated the shared maritime interests and commitment to ensuring freedom of navigation and shipping also strengthen the bond between the two nations, considering that both India and Italy are the founding members of the India-Middle East-Europe Connectivity Corridor along with like-minded friends.
The External Affairs minister also interacted with the Indian Community and friends of India in Rome
Rome Mediterranean Dialogue 2024
In a subsequent engagement, Dr. Jaishankar also participated in the 10th edition of the MED Mediterranean Dialogue in Rome that is organised by the Institute for Political Studies (ISPI) in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International cooperation of Italy.
During his remarks at the event, he highlighted several themes ranging from the vibrant trade figures with the Mediterranean, Gulf and the MENA region, significant diaspora population; with about 40% in Italy to strong political, defence and security and technology collaboration with the nations of these regions.
In an update on his X handle he stated “Pleased to address the 10th edition of RomeMEDialogues today. Underlined India’s robust trade, investment and political linkages with the Mediterranean and West Asia/Middle East. And our commitment to further regional connectivity and cooperation through IMEEC and I2U2. Spoke about the ongoing conflicts in West Asia and Ukraine and the need for diplomatic initiatives”.
On the sidelines
On the sidelines of the Mediterranean Dialogue, Dr.Jaishankar also interacted with Foreign Ministers of Croatia; Mr. Gordan Grlic Radman, Lebanon; Mr. Abdallah Bou Habib, France; Mr. Jean-Noel Barrot, Ukraine; Mr. Andrii Sybiha and UK; Mr. David Lammy.
Outreach Session of G7 Foreign Ministers’ meeting
The External Affairs Minister is also expected to participate in the Outreach Session of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Fiuggi, Italy and also interact with his counterparts from Italy and other participating nations and hold bilateral meetings with them.
