G7 Summit: PM Modi Holds Talks with Biden, Trudeau, Pope, and Other Leaders

Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrapped up a busy day in southern Italy, engaging in numerous bilateral meetings with world leaders on the sidelines of the G7 summit.

"Together, we aim to create impactful solutions that benefit the global community and create a better world for future generations. I thank the people and government of Italy for their warm hospitality," PM Modi posted on X before departing. His plane later landed in New Delhi at around 10 am on Saturday.

Meeting with Emmanuel Macron

PM Modi had a productive meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, marking their fourth meeting in a year. They discussed ways to further strengthen the strategic partnership. This meeting was Modi's first official bilateral engagement with an international leader since starting his third term as Prime Minister earlier this month.

Discussions with Rishi Sunak

The Prime Minister met with his British counterpart Rishi Sunak, reaffirming his commitment to strengthen the India-UK strategic partnership. They explored opportunities to deepen ties in sectors such as semiconductors, technology, and trade, with a focus on defense collaboration. The Ministry of External Affairs described the meeting as "fruitful."

Conversation with Volodymyr Zelenskyy

In his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Modi emphasized India's commitment to supporting a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict through dialogue and diplomacy. They also discussed the upcoming Swiss peace conference for Ukraine, with Zelenskyy thanking Modi for sending a high-level delegation to the conclave.

Talks with Giorgia Meloni

PM Modi held bilateral talks with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, focusing on enhancing defense and security cooperation. They discussed the potential for further collaboration in the defense industry, according to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs.

Invitation to Pope Francis

Modi met with Pope Francis, inviting him to visit India and expressing admiration for his commitment to serving the people. Their meeting took place during the Outreach session of the G7 Summit, where they joined other leaders to discuss topics like Artificial Intelligence, Energy, Africa, and the Mediterranean.

Interaction with Joe Biden

PM Modi had a separate interaction with US President Joe Biden on the margins of the G7 summit. This conversation followed Washington's allegations of an Indian link to a foiled plot in New York. "It's always a pleasure to meet @POTUS @JoeBiden. India and USA will keep working together to further global good," Modi stated.

Brief Encounter with Justin Trudeau

Modi also spoke briefly with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau amidst strained India-Canada relations. Although the specifics of their conversation were not disclosed, their interaction was noted against the backdrop of tensions over the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Meeting with Fumio Kishida

The Prime Minister met with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to discuss the importance of a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. They expressed a desire to collaborate in defense, technology, semiconductors, clean energy, and digital technology.

Dialogue with Olaf Scholz

Modi's meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz focused on the India-Germany Strategic Partnership and its potential to contribute to global growth. "Today's interaction with Chancellor Scholz was very productive," Modi wrote, highlighting the partnership's role in promoting inclusive and sustainable growth.

Modi's Outreach Speech - 'Tech Monopoly'

In his address at the G7 Outreach session, PM Modi emphasized the need to turn technological monopolies into mass usage to build an inclusive society and reduce social inequalities.

He reiterated India's commitment to making Artificial Intelligence transparent, fair, secure, accessible, and responsible, while also outlining India's principles in energy policy: availability, accessibility, affordability, and acceptability.

'Victory of Democracy'

PM Modi highlighted the significance of the recent Lok Sabha elections, describing the historic victory as a triumph of democracy. He shared figures from the election to emphasize the scale of India's democratic exercise, calling it a "victory for the entire democratic world."