Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for congratulating her on becoming Italy's longest continuously serving prime minister in the postwar era, saying that the relationship between Italy and India is "stronger than ever."
Meloni expressed gratitude to Modi for his wishes and friendship, while highlighting the growing strategic partnership between the two countries. She said the Special Strategic Partnership launched during their recent meeting reflected the importance both nations attach to their relationship and their shared desire to create new opportunities for growth.
"Thank you, dear PM Modi, for your words and for your friendship," Meloni said in a post on social media, adding that the India-Italy relationship was stronger than ever.
PM Modi congratulates Meloni
Earlier on Friday, Modi congratulated Meloni on reaching the milestone, saying her achievement reflected the trust and confidence of the Italian people in her leadership.
The Prime Minister also highlighted Meloni's friendship as an important factor in strengthening the India-Italy Special Strategic Partnership. He said he looked forward to continuing close cooperation between the two countries to build a prosperous future for their people.
Meloni breaks Berlusconi's record
Meloni's government completed 1,413 days in office on Friday, making it the longest uninterrupted government in Italy's postwar history. The milestone surpassed the previous record held by former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi's second government, which lasted 1,412 days.
Meloni, who became Italy's first woman prime minister in October 2022, has maintained the same coalition throughout her tenure despite Italy's long history of political instability.
The achievement comes as Italy prepares for elections due by the end of 2027. While supporters point to political stability, job growth and fiscal discipline, critics argue that several long-standing structural challenges remain unresolved.
India-Italy ties gain momentum
The latest exchange between Modi and Meloni comes after the two countries elevated their ties to a Special Strategic Partnership during Modi's visit to Rome in May 2026.
The partnership covers areas including trade, investment, defence, advanced manufacturing, energy, space, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, tourism and culture. Italy and India have also set an ambitious target of increasing bilateral trade to €20 billion by 2029.
The two countries have also planned a Year of Italy-India Culture and Tourism in 2027, aimed at strengthening people-to-people ties and cultural cooperation.
