‘Reflection of people’s trust’: Modi hails Meloni for becoming Italy’s longest-serving prime minister

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgio Meloni. Files | Photo credit: AP

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (September 4, 2026) congratulated his Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni on becoming Italy’s longest continuously serving post-war prime minister, describing the historic feat as a clear sign of the Italian people’s confidence and trust in her leadership.

Ms. Meloni thanked Mr. Modi and said that today the relationship between Italy and India is stronger than ever and together the two countries also continue to strengthen the bond between Europe and Asia and also work together to develop the India-West Asia-Europe Economic Corridor.

Forty-nine-year-old Meloni has been Prime Minister of Italy since October 22, 2022. On Thursday, September 4, after 1,413 days in office, she became the country’s longest-serving prime minister without interruption since World War II. She is also the first woman in this position.

“I congratulate my friend Prime Minister Meloni on becoming the longest continuously serving Prime Minister in Italy’s post-war history. This milestone is a reflection of the confidence and trust of the Italian people in her leadership,” Mr Modi said in a post on X.

I congratulate my friend Prime Minister Meloni on becoming the longest continuously serving Prime Minister in Italy’s post-war history. This milestone is a reflection of the confidence and trust of the Italian people in her leadership.

Her friendship was also…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 4, 2026

Mr. Modi said Ms. Meloni’s friendship was also instrumental in strengthening the special strategic partnership between India and Italy and that he looked forward to continuing to work closely together to build a prosperous future for the people of both countries.

“I wish her every success in the years to come,” he said.

In response, Ms Meloni said: “Thank you dear @narendramodi for your words and for your friendship. Today the relationship between Italy and India is stronger than ever.” The Italian Prime Minister said that the special strategic partnership that the two countries launched during the last meeting was a recognition of the importance of this bond.

Thank you dear @narendramodifor your words and for your friendship.
Today, the relationship between Italy and India is stronger than ever 🇮🇹🇮🇳

The special strategic partnership we launched during our last meeting is a recognition of the importance of this bond and… https://t.co/7xQgo7RbvH

— Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) September 4, 2026

She said it is the will to bring together the expertise of the two nations to create new avenues for growth and seize the extraordinary opportunities for cooperation that lie ahead.

“I am sure that together Italy and India will continue to strengthen the bond between our continents and will also work side by side to develop the India-West Asia-Europe Economic Corridor,” said Meloni.

Published – 04 Sep 2026 21:54 IST