Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented specially curated Indian cultural gifts to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and President Sergio Mattarella during his visit to Italy. The gifts showcased India’s rich textile traditions, artistic excellence, and classical musical heritage. Modi gifted Meloni traditional Muga silk and Shirui Lily silk stoles, symbolizing India’s diverse cultural legacy and craftsmanship.
Muga silk, also known as the “Golden Silk” of Assam, is a rare and prestigious textile originating from the Brahmaputra Valley. It is celebrated for its natural golden sheen, durability, and sustainability due to being produced without artificial dyes. The Shirui Lily silk stole draws inspiration from the rare Shirui Lily flower in Manipur, symbolizing purity and cultural pride for the Tangkhul Naga community.
Additionally, Modi gifted Italian President Sergio Mattarella a handcrafted Marble Inlay Work Box along with CDs featuring musical compilations of legendary Indian classical vocalists Pandit Bhimsen Joshi and M. S. Subbulakshmi. The Marble Inlay Box exemplifies India’s traditional handcrafted artistry and stands as a remarkable artistic connection between India and Italy.
Prime Minister Modi recently concluded a diplomatic tour covering the United Arab Emirates, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy. During his visit to Italy, both nations elevated their bilateral ties to a Special Strategic Partnership with a goal to expand trade to €20 billion by 2029. Agreements were signed covering agriculture, financial crime prevention, and mobility of Indian healthcare professionals to Italy. Discussions with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also advanced cooperation on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
