Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni of Italy met on the sidelines of the 51st [2] G7 Summit.
The meeting underscores the growing diplomatic and economic friendship between India and Italy. Strengthening these ties is seen as a strategic move for both nations to expand their cooperation on the global stage.
According to reports, the meeting took place in Kananaskis, Canada [2]. While the primary focus remained on bilateral relations, the interaction gained significant attention on social media. A video of the meeting posted to the Instagram account of Prime Minister Meloni has been viewed more than 136 million [1] times.
Some reports highlight a lighthearted moment during the encounter. According to a video narrative from Aaj Tak, Prime Minister Modi gave Prime Minister Meloni a "Melody" toffee [1]. Other reports of the summit meeting do not mention the exchange of a gift [2].
Both leaders used the occasion to reinforce the partnership between their respective governments. The visibility of the meeting online reflects a high level of public interest in the personal rapport between the two leaders as they navigate shared economic interests.
“The meeting underscores the growing diplomatic and economic friendship between India and Italy.”
The high social media engagement and the exchange of a casual gift suggest a focus on 'soft diplomacy' to complement formal state relations. By emphasizing personal rapport, India and Italy may be attempting to build a more resilient and visible partnership that transcends traditional bureaucratic channels.
