India and Italy Strengthen Maritime Ties: Union Minister Sonowal Meets Italian Minister Urso in Mumbai

Mumbai: In a significant step toward enhancing maritime collaboration, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal met Italian Minister of Enterprises Adolfo Urso today at Mumbai Port. The meeting, held on the sidelines of the Italian Navy School Ship Amerigo Vespucci docking at Indira Docks, underscored the growing partnership between India and Italy.

Highlighting the robust bilateral relations, Sonowal stated, “Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, economic cooperation between India and Italy has flourished across sectors such as trade, infrastructure, and renewable energy. Deepening maritime collaboration will unlock immense economic potential for both nations.”

Sonowal emphasized the importance of maritime initiatives like the Blue Economy and sought Italian support for the National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) in Gujarat’s Lothal, showcasing India’s maritime legacy. He also noted the existing collaboration between Cochin Shipyard Limited and Fincantieri in shipbuilding as a testament to shared interests.

The Italian cultural exhibition Villagio Italia, set up near the docking site, featured a blend of creativity and craftsmanship. Highlights included the We Are Sea exhibition, Expo Leonardo, Giotto Experience, and The Art of Jago, among others. Visitors also toured the Amerigo Vespucci, celebrated as the “world’s most beautiful ship,” which is on a global tour.

The 100.5-meter-long tall ship, commissioned in 1931, is equipped with 26 sails and modern propulsion systems, accommodating officers, sailors, and cadets. Its tour has spanned cities like Los Angeles, Tokyo, Darwin, and Singapore, with upcoming visits to Doha, Abu Dhabi, and Jeddah.

India and Italy maintain a strong maritime trade relationship, with Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) handling cargo such as steel, automobiles, and project goods. During FY 2023-24, the Italian cruise vessel Costa Serena made 20 calls at MbPA, highlighting Italy’s active role in India’s maritime landscape.

The event also included discussions on the Space and Blue Economy, attended by prominent dignitaries from India and Italy. Senior officials from both governments and naval forces, including Italian Navy Admiral Antonio Natale and Indian representatives, explored avenues for deeper cooperation.

The docking of Amerigo Vespucci and the accompanying cultural and strategic discussions have further cemented India-Italy relations, marking another milestone in the shared journey of maritime and economic growth.