Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Thursday extended warm birthday greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he turned 76, wishing him “health, energy and success” and once again highlighting the close personal equation between the two leaders. In a message shared on social media, Meloni conveyed her wishes to Modi and referred to the friendship that has become an increasingly visible feature of India-Italy relations. The Italian leader’s message joined a stream of greetings for Modi from political leaders and dignitaries in India and abroad on his birthday.
Ties gather momentum
Meloni’s greeting came at a time when India and Italy have significantly expanded their bilateral relationship. Modi travelled to Italy in May this year for an official visit and held talks with Meloni in Rome, during which the two countries elevated their Strategic Partnership to a Special Strategic Partnership. The leaders agreed to hold annual meetings, including on the sidelines of multilateral gatherings, while strengthening ministerial and institutional-level engagement. Their discussions covered trade and investment, defence and security, science and technology, research and innovation, space, energy, artificial intelligence, critical technologies, education, culture and people-to-people ties. The two sides have also been implementing the Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-2029, which provides a broader framework for expanding cooperation.
Personal rapport
The public warmth between Modi and Meloni has frequently attracted attention during their meetings at international summits and bilateral engagements. Earlier this month, Modi congratulated Meloni after she became the longest continuously serving prime minister in Italy’s post-war history, describing her as a friend and saying her friendship had been instrumental in strengthening the India-Italy Special Strategic Partnership. Meloni’s latest birthday message returned that personal warmth as Modi marked his 76th birthday on September 17.
Born in Vadnagar in Gujarat on September 17, 1950, Modi has served as Prime Minister since May 2014 after previously serving as Gujarat chief minister. His birthday was marked by programmes and initiatives across the country, while messages from leaders and well-wishers poured in throughout the day. Modi also expressed gratitude for the wishes and blessings he received, saying they strengthened his resolve to serve the country with greater devotion.