Blitz Bureau
EXTERNAL Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said India views Italy as a key partner, a crucial ally in Europe, and a very influential player in the Mediterranean.
Inaugurating the new Chancery of Indian embassy in Rome, Jaishankar said that the frequent interactions at various levels between the two countries are a sign of the depth and breadth of their bilateral ties. He praised the historical ties between India and Italy and noted that the two maritime nations offer a unique perspective to global affairs.
“Our historical ties are very deep, and it would not be an exaggeration to say that a significant part of India’s historical interaction with Europe was with Italy. For centuries, Italy served as a key entry and exit point for goods exchanged with India. Italians have been producers, customers, financiers, and carriers in our commerce. As maritime nations, we share a perspective that sets us apart in the world,” he said.
The foreign minister highlighted that the new Chancery will enhance the Embassy’s ability to serve the Indian community in Italy.
Taking to social media platform X, Jaishankar remarked that the new facility reflects the growing India-Italy partnership and strengthens services for the Indian diaspora.
“Pleased to inaugurate the new Chancery of the Embassy of India in Rome. It befits the continued expansion of the India-Italy partnership in recent years. It will also help us serve the Indian community in Italy better,” he wrote.
“I recall Prime Minister Meloni, during the Raisina Dialogue, describing the Mediterranean Sea as a bridge connecting the Atlantic Ocean with the Indian Ocean. Our shared maritime interests and commitment to ensuring freedom of navigation bring us closer. We are coordinating in areas such as the Gulf of Aden and responding to shipping challenges. Most importantly, we are leveraging our history to build a modern relationship,” he stated. Referring to the proposed IndiaMiddle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), the minister said that this connectivity corridor will be a game changer between Europe and Asia.
