On his first day in Italy, PM Modi meets Indologists and Hindu community leaders

New Delhi: On his first day of visit to Italy on Oct 29, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a series of important bilateral meetings, including with his Italian counterpart Mario Draghi.

Mr Modi also met and interacted with the community members from various organisations, including the Italian Hindu Union-Sanatana Dharma Sangha representatives. The Prime Minister lauded their role in "propagating Indian culture in Italy", an MEA release said.

In his interaction with the community members from various organisations, including the representatives of the Italian Congregation for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), the Prime Minister appreciated their contribution in several social activities, including spreading the message of Bhagavad Gita in Italy.

Mr Modi paid tribute to the valour shown by Indian soldiers, especially Sikhs in World War – 1 and World War – II. He met and interacted with the community members from the Sikh community and institutions involved in the commemoration of Indian soldiers who fought in Italy in World War I and World War II.

In his meeting with several Indologists and Sanskrit experts from Italian universities, Mr Modi noted their interest in Indian culture, literature and practice of yoga and Ayurveda and lauded the role played by them in strengthening the ties between the two countries. 

MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said in a tweet that PM Modi and his Italian counterpart Mr Draghi reviewed the 2020-2025 Action Plan of Flag of India-Italy bilateral partnership.

Both the leaders also reiterated the commitment to further expanding trade and investment linkages. They also resolved to cooperate for accelerating clean energy transition to fight climate change.

During the day, the Prime Minister paid floral tribute at the bust of Mahatma Gandhi at Piazza Gandhi in the city of Rome. After paying tribute, Prime Minister also greeted the members of the Indian Diaspora who were present there in large numbers.

Mr Modi also met the President of the European Council, Charles Michel, and President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen.

On Saturday, Mr Modi will attend the 16th G-20 Summit in Rome and also meet pope Francis in the Vatican City and meet Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin.

The European Union leaders congratulated India for the excellent progress on anti-Covid pandemic vaccination.