India, Italy announce joint initiative for co-op in combating financing of terrorism as PM Modi meets Meloni

By Admin

24 Nov, 2025

India and Italy have taken a major step forward in strengthening global counter-terrorism efforts by announcing a new joint initiative dedicated to combating the financing of terrorism. The announcement came on Sunday (November 23, 2025) as Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his Italian counterpart, Giorgia Meloni, on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg.

A Strong, Unified Stand Against Terror Financing
During their meeting, the two leaders formally adopted the India-Italy Joint Initiative to Counter Financing of Terrorism, a landmark framework aimed at deepening cooperation in disrupting terror networks and cutting off their financial support systems. The initiative reiterates both nations’ strong and shared resolve to fight terrorism in all its forms.

Prime Minister Modi, in a social media post following the meeting, remarked, “Had a very good meeting with Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The India-Italy Strategic Partnership is growing from strength to strength, greatly benefitting the people of our nations. India and Italy are announcing a Joint Initiative for cooperation in combating financing of terrorism. This is a necessary and timely effort, which will strengthen humanity’s fight against terrorism and its support networks.”

Prime Minister Meloni also expressed solidarity with India regarding the recent terror incident in Delhi and reiterated Italy’s unwavering commitment to joint action against terrorism.

Deepening Strategic Partnership Across Key Sectors
Beyond security collaboration, the meeting focused on expanding bilateral ties across multiple sectors trade, investment, defence, innovation, artificial intelligence, space, and education. According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), both leaders reviewed progress made under the Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025–29 and expressed satisfaction at the positive momentum.

The initiative will also foster deeper collaboration on multilateral platforms such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the Global Counter Terrorism Forum (GCTF), where both nations aim to jointly advocate for stronger global action against terror financing.

Boost to Trade, Technology, and Industrial Cooperation
India and Italy highlighted significant developments in trade and business cooperation. With bilateral trade touching approximately $15 billion in 2023–24 and cumulative Italian FDI into India crossing $4 billion since 2000, both leaders acknowledged the rising economic synergy between the two countries.

They welcomed the two Business Fora held earlier this year in New Delhi and Brescia, which witnessed strong participation from industries on both sides. The leaders also noted active efforts to enhance partnerships in innovation, technology, investment, and supply chain resilience key areas that can boost the competitiveness of both economies.

The recent visit of an Italian Space Delegation to India was also appreciated, with both sides optimistic about deeper government and private-sector collaborations in the space domain.

Focus on a Future-Ready Partnership
Prime Minister Meloni reiterated Italy’s strong support for a mutually beneficial India–EU Free Trade Agreement and extended encouragement for the AI Impact Summit, which India will host in 2026.

Looking ahead, both leaders affirmed their commitment to continued dialogue and cooperation in global and multilateral forums, upholding shared values such as democracy, rule of law, and sustainable development.

The meeting in Johannesburg marks yet another milestone in the rapidly evolving India–Italy Strategic Partnership one rooted in economic opportunity, technological advancement, and a shared dedication to global security.