Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for congratulating her on becoming Italy's longest continuously serving prime minister since World War II, saying the relationship between India and Italy is now stronger than ever.

Responding to Modi's message, Meloni highlighted the expanding cooperation between the two countries and said their recently launched Special Strategic Partnership reflected a shared commitment to deeper engagement.

She said the partnership recognised the growing importance of India-Italy ties and brought together the strengths and expertise of both nations to unlock fresh economic and development opportunities.

According to Meloni, the two countries have significant scope for cooperation in the coming years. She also expressed confidence that New Delhi and Rome would play an important role in strengthening links between Europe and Asia.

The Italian leader specifically referred to the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), saying both countries would continue working together on the ambitious connectivity initiative.

Earlier, Modi had congratulated Meloni on the political milestone, saying her achievement demonstrated the confidence and trust placed in her leadership by the people of Italy.

In his message on X, Modi also acknowledged Meloni's role in strengthening bilateral relations and said her friendship had contributed significantly to the growing India-Italy Special Strategic Partnership.

He added that he looked forward to continued cooperation between the two leaders to build a prosperous future for citizens of both countries.

Meloni, 49, assumed office as Italy's Prime Minister on October 22, 2022. After completing 1,413 consecutive days in office on Thursday, she became the country's longest continuously serving prime minister in the post-World War II era. She is also Italy's first woman Prime Minister.

Interestingly, Modi himself reached a similar political milestone earlier this year. On June 10, 2026, he became India's longest continuously serving elected Prime Minister after completing 4,399 uninterrupted days in office.

Modi's congratulatory message to Meloni therefore highlighted not only her record-breaking tenure but also the increasingly close political and strategic partnership between India and Italy.