In a landmark action to boost their strategic cooperation,
the Prime Ministers of India and Italy, Shri Narendra Modi and Ms. Giorgia
Meloni unveiled a Joint Strategic Action Plan for 2025-2029 during their discussion
at the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro on November 18, 2024. The comprehensive
plan contains ten priority areas, aimed at encouraging cooperation across a
wide scope of sectors.
1. Political Dialogue- The two nations stressed holding
high-level political meetings, including frequent meetings and joint visits by
their Heads of Government, Foreign Ministers, and other senior administrators.
They dedicated to annual bilateral talks and improved cooperation between
different ministries to strengthen joint interests.
2. Economic Cooperation and Investments- India and Italy
seek to improve bilateral trade and investment, leveraging joint committees and
working groups in sectors such as food processing, transportation,
pharmaceuticals, and green technologies. Industrial collaborations and mutual
investments, especially in semiconductors, infrastructure, and advanced
manufacturing, will also be encouraged.
3. Connectivity- Both sides vowed to improve sustainable
transportation and marine infrastructure growth, especially via the
India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC). A deal on maritime and port
collaboration is also on the agenda.
4. Science, Technology, Innovation, and Start-ups- The
project summarizes full cooperation in emerging technologies, including
artificial intelligence, digitalization, and Industry 4.0. A important emphasis
will be put on clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and critical minerals.
Academic prospects and start-up businesses will also be encouraged, funded by
the Indo-Italian Innovation and Incubation Exchange Programme.
5. Space Sector- The collaboration will see a growth in
space exploration endeavors, with partnerships between the Italian Space Agency
(ASI) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Initiatives will have
Earth observation projects, lunar science, and commercial partnerships
involving industries and start-ups.
6. Energy Transition- The two countries will prioritize
renewable energy and energy efficiency, focusing on green hydrogen, biofuels,
and innovative grid development. Measures to support global endeavors like the
International Solar Alliance and the Global Biofuels Alliance will be
strengthened.
7. Defence Cooperation- Italy and India will deepen defence
relations through annual Joint Defence Consultative discussions, co-development
of defence platforms, and improved maritime collaboration. The plan also
contains a Defence Industrial Roadmap and stable research partnerships.
8. Security Cooperation- Bilateral security efforts will
focus on fighting terrorism, cybercrimes, and transnational crimes. Both sides
desire to improve judicial collaboration, swap best practices, and sign a deal
on the joint protection of classified details.
9. Migration and Mobility- The two nations will promote
secure and lawful migration, especially in sectors like healthcare, and improve
mobility for students and researchers. A pilot scheme for training health
experts in India for career in Italy will be established.
10. Culture, Academic, and People-to-People Exchanges- Cultural
relations will be deepened via partnerships in heritage preservation,
filmmaking, and tourism. Improved affiliations between universities, museums,
and vocational organizations are also on the agenda.
The Joint Strategic Action Plan echoes a dedication to
leverage the full potential of the India-Italy alliance. It builds on the
shared idea of the two nations to push economic development, scientific
innovation, and cultural relations while handling global challenges like
climate change and security.
The implementation of this plan is predicted to boost
bilateral relations and contribute to peace, stability, and prosperity in the
Indo-Pacific and beyond. (PR)