As the G20 Summit in Rome concludes, the true measure of India’s diplomatic progress is found in the crucial bilateral meetings held on the sidelines. In a powerful display of strategic engagement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted a series of significant one-on-one discussions with the leaders of Japan, Canada, and host nation Italy, reinforcing India’s key priorities on the world stage.
These meetings offer a clear insight into India’s multifaceted foreign policy: strengthening a cornerstone alliance with Japan, navigating a complex partnership with Canada, and building new momentum with a key European power in Italy.
India-Japan Talks: Reaffirming a Strategic Partnership
First on the agenda was a pivotal meeting with Japan’s new Prime Minister, Fumio Kishida. This inaugural in-person interaction was a critical opportunity to ensure continuity and further deepen the robust India-Japan “Special Strategic and Global Partnership.”
The comprehensive discussion covered the full spectrum of their relationship, with a core focus on the Indo-Pacific. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, and inclusive region, a clear signal for stability amid growing assertiveness. The Quad alliance, which also includes the US and Australia, was highlighted as a central pillar of this vision.
Beyond geopolitics, the leaders reviewed progress on key economic projects, including the flagship Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail. They also explored enhancing cooperation in forward-looking sectors like green technology, digital transformation, and building resilient supply chains.
Navigating Complex Ties: Modi’s Dialogue with Canada’s Trudeau
The conversation with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was equally significant. While anchored by strong people-to-people ties, the India-Canada relationship has faced challenges. This meeting provided a vital platform to re-engage and address mutual concerns constructively.
Key discussion points included:
* Economic Collaboration: Both sides expressed keen interest in unlocking untapped potential in bilateral trade and investment.
* Shared Values: Climate action and the promotion of democratic principles were identified as areas for closer cooperation.
* Security Concerns: The dialogue is understood to have touched upon India’s security concerns regarding certain extremist elements in Canada. PM Modi reiterated the importance of addressing these issues for the long-term health of the relationship.
The overall tone was one of moving forward, focusing on common ground while maintaining open channels of communication.
Deepening Cooperation: PM Modi Meets Italy’s Mario Draghi
Rounding out his diplomatic schedule, PM Modi held extensive talks with his Italian counterpart, Prime Minister Mario Draghi. The meeting aimed to cement the growing momentum in bilateral ties, building on Italy’s role as the G20 host.
The post-pandemic economic recovery was a central theme. Both leaders expressed satisfaction with expanding trade and explored new partnerships in clean energy, food processing, and advanced manufacturing. Defence cooperation, a rapidly growing pillar of the relationship, was also reviewed. PM Modi extended his gratitude to PM Draghi for Italy’s excellent stewardship of the G20 summit through complex global challenges.
For India, these bilateral engagements in Rome were substantive diplomatic exercises that fortified alliances, addressed complex partnerships, and laid the groundwork for a more secure and prosperous future.
