Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni embarked on her second visit to India in 2023, arriving in Delhi on September 8 to participate in the G20 Leaders' Summit. The visit was marked by a warm welcome from India's Minister of State for Agriculture, Shobha Karandlaje, in the National Capital. The G20 Summit unfolded at Pragati Maidan’s Bharat Mandapam, providing a platform for global leaders to address pressing international issues.
Giorgia Meloni's presence at the summit was noteworthy not only for her role as Italy's Prime Minister but also as the first woman to hold this position in Italy. Her ascent to power occurred despite her coalition comprising just one in four female ministers, underlining her trailblazing leadership.
Meloni's roots trace back to Garbatella, a neighbourhood in southern Rome, where she developed affiliations with the youth wing of the Italian Social Movement, a group with origins in Benito Mussolini’s wartime militia.
In 2022, Giorgia Meloni achieved a historic milestone by becoming Italy’s first female Prime Minister. Her journey was characterized by her leadership of the Brothers of Italy party and her principled opposition to Mario Draghi’s national unity administration. Her remarkable rise to power began at the age of 15 when she joined the party's youth wing, dedicated to combating terrorism in Italy. Her determination and leadership qualities shone through, enabling her to secure her first local election victory at just 21 years old.
During her visit to the G20 Summit in India, Giorgia Meloni made a distinct fashion statement by donning a black sleeveless kurta paired with a traditional purple dupatta adorned with golden borders, reflecting her ethnic style.
One of the highlights of her visit was the bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Their discussions covered a wide range of topics, including trade, commerce, defence, and emerging technologies. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to fostering global prosperity through cooperation and shared interests.
Giorgia Meloni's presence at the G20 Summit and her bilateral meeting with PM Modi underscored the significance of international collaboration in addressing global challenges. As the first female Prime Minister of Italy, she continues to be a trailblazer in her own right, not only for her country but also as a symbol of women's leadership on the global stage. Her visit was a testament to the growing ties between Italy and India, with discussions spanning various crucial sectors that will contribute to mutual growth and prosperity.
