Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni quoted a Hindi proverb to describe the newly elevated Special Strategic Partnership between Italy and India [1].
The gesture signals a deepening diplomatic and cultural alignment between the two nations as they formalize a higher tier of cooperation. By utilizing the local language of her counterpart, Meloni emphasized the personal and political effort required to reach this diplomatic milestone.
During a joint press conference in Rome on May 20, 2024 [2], Meloni spoke alongside Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She used the phrase "Parishram hi safalta ki kunji hai," which translates to "hard work is the key to success" [1], [3].
Meloni said the proverb reflected the nature of the bilateral relationship. The use of the quote was intended to highlight that the current state of cooperation is the result of consistent effort, and mutual commitment [1], [4].
This elevation to a Special Strategic Partnership follows high-level engagements that have spanned the past three years [5]. The partnership aims to strengthen ties across various sectors, utilizing the momentum built through these diplomatic channels.
Meloni said the phrase "Parishram Hi Safalta Ki Kunji Hai" represents the bridge between the two cultures [1]. The event in Rome served as a public affirmation of the strategic shift in how Italy and India manage their bilateral affairs, moving toward a more integrated and hardworking partnership [2], [4].
“"Parishram hi safalta ki kunji hai" (hard work is the key to success)”
The transition to a Special Strategic Partnership indicates that Italy views India as a critical pillar of its geopolitical strategy. By incorporating Hindi into her official rhetoric, Meloni is employing soft-power diplomacy to solidify a relationship that has been systematically built over the last three years, signaling that the partnership is based on substantive labor rather than mere symbolic agreement.
