Piyush Goyal Highlights Strengthening India–Italy Ties at Mumbai Business Forum

By A Staff Reporter

Mumbai: Union Minister for Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal on Thursday underscored the rapid strengthening of India’s economic and strategic ties with Italy, highlighting an unprecedented frequency of high-level engagements between the two nations. Speaking at the Italy–India Business Forum, Goyal said this was his third such interaction with Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani in just eight months—an uncommon pace in his six-year tenure as Commerce Minister.

“I am very happy that this is our third engagement in eight months, something unmatched in my six years as Commerce Minister. It reflects the strong bond between our countries,” Goyal said, addressing representatives from both Indian and Italian industry.

The minister emphasised that cooperation between New Delhi and Rome has expanded well beyond traditional trade, now encompassing strategic collaboration, investment opportunities, and supply chain partnerships. Central to these efforts is the progress on the proposed EU–India Free Trade Agreement, which both sides consider vital for unlocking new market access and elevating economic cooperation.

“Working with you (Antonio Tajani) on strengthening our strategic ties, advancing the EU–India FTA, and creating joint business and investment opportunities has been a privilege,” he added.