Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani came with a new sense of determination to New Delhi. His message was loud and clear: the path toward the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor is opening again, with relative calm returning to Gaza.
Tajani’s visit, his second this year, brought fresh momentum to a project many had feared had stalled. His meetings with both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar have sent across word that both nations are ready to push forward.
PM Modi tweets, “Delighted to meet Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani, today. Conveyed appreciation for the proactive steps being taken by both sides towards implementation of the Italy-India Joint Strategic… pic.twitter.com/9eimzmN6SZ
— ANI (@ANI) December 10, 2025
What are the Changing Middle East Landscape
Tajani underlined that progress on IMEC is closely tied to stability across the region. As violence in Gaza has lessened and diplomatic channels open up, he feels this is the right time to pick up the pace.
He characterized the situation now as much better, adding that Italy and India are ready to advance efforts with partners in the Gulf, Israel and Egypt. A recent trip to Saudi Arabia and the UAE underscored a growing willingness among regional players themselves to cooperate on long-term infrastructure.
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Why IMEC Matters for India & Europe
Unveiled at the 2023 G20 Summit in New Delhi, IMEC was a strategic trade corridor that cuts India’s transit time to Europe while enhancing logistical resilience. For India, it strengthens its role as an anchor in global supply chains, while for Europe, it offers diversification at a time when geopolitical uncertainty strains traditional trade routes.
Tajani has described the corridor as “very very important,” touting the Port of Trieste as a crucial gateway into Europe.
Diplomacy Strengthening the Partnership
Jaishankar welcomed the frequent visits of Tajani as a sign of deepening political and personal rapport. The discussions covered defence ties, maritime security, technology cooperation and the Joint Strategic Action Plan for 2025-29.
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Shared democratic values and commitment to a stable global order were underlined by both ministers. Tajani also expressed optimism regarding advancing the India-EU free trade agreement-a long-pending goal with significant economic potential.
A New Phase in India-Italy Economic Relations
The trip concludes in Mumbai, where the Italy-India Business Forum takes place, showcasing joint ventures and investment opportunities for industry leaders. He underscored that Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will pay a visit to India in 2026, the next step in a relationship expanding at a breakneck pace.
If regional stability holds, the IMEC may yet become a symbol of how India, Italy and their partners turn diplomacy into lasting infrastructure and shared prosperity.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available statements and diplomatic developments. Details may evolve as regional conditions and negotiations change.
