Commerce Minister said, 'India and Italy discussed cooperation in agriculture, defense and space sector'

India and Italy explored means of enhanced cooperation in key areas such as agriculture, defense, space, infrastructure, and transportation. India's Union Commerce Minister, Piyush Goyal, met with Italy's Under Secretary for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Maria Tripodi, and Italy's Ambassador to India, Antonio Bartoli. The leaders exchanged views on issues of identifying ways of intensifying cooperation in key areas for the purposes of promoting bilateral trade.

Interacting on social media on Monday, Goyal described the meeting as "productive" and highlighted the commitment of both countries to deepen economic relations. Goyal said, "Had a productive meeting with HE Maria Tripodi, Under Secretary for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy, and HE Antonio Bartoli, Ambassador of Italy to India. Discussed enhancing bilateral trade relations and strengthening cooperation in key sectors such as agriculture, defense, space, infrastructure, and transport."

Apart from his meeting with the Italian delegation, Goyal also held a virtual discussion with Maros Sefcovic, Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security of the European Union. The two leaders discussed ways to enhance engagement in the future and explored new opportunities to strengthen the India-EU partnership.

The minister expressed his keenness to welcome Sefcovic to India during his upcoming visit. The discussions between Goyal and Sefcovic are likely to contribute to strengthening economic and strategic cooperation between the two regions. On Monday, Goyal also met Soren Toft, CEO of Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), and Deepak Tiwari, Managing Director of MSC Agency India.