In the age of ‘polycrisis’, Italy and India share common interests but also joint challenges in the Indo-Mediterranean Sea.
Italy’s importance for India
a) Strategic Partner in the Indo-Mediterranean Region
- The Indo-Mediterranean region, which includes nations surrounding the Indian and Pacific Oceans, aligns the strategic interests of India and Italy, making it vital for global trade and digital connectivity.
- The upcoming Blue-Raman submarine data cables connecting Genoa and Mumbai highlights the region’s significance for digital infrastructure, as cooperation can mitigate threats like piracy and terrorism.
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| The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) is a proposed alternative to the Suez Canal project that aims to create a network of infrastructure to improve trade between India, the Middle East, and Europe. |
b) Economic Significance
- Italy is the sixth-largest exporter globally, making it a vital trade partner for India.
- As Europe’s second-largest manufacturing country, Italy presents substantial opportunities for technological and industrial collaboration.
c) Security Collaborator
- Italy’s commitment to security and defence in the Indian Ocean Region, particularly against piracy and threats from groups like the Houthis, aligns with India’s strategic interests.
- Italy’s participation in EU naval operations (EUNAVFOR Atalanta, EMASOH, ASPIDES) enhances maritime security for critical Indian trade routes.
d) Diplomatic Support
- Italy actively supports India’s initiatives in international forums, including backing the inclusion of the African Union in the G20.
- Italy’s endorsement of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) aligns with India’s goals for enhanced connectivity and trade.
e) Cultural and Diaspora Connections
- Italy hosts the second-largest Indian diaspora in the EU, fostering robust people-to-people ties.
- The historical connections between Italian and Indian civilizations provide a solid foundation for cultural exchange.
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How India and Italy are Cooperating
a) Defence Collaboration
- In October 2023, India and Italy signed a defence agreement to strengthen bilateral ties, facilitating regular dialogues through the Italy-India Military Cooperation Group.
- The Italian Carrier Strike Group (aircraft carrier ITS Cavour and frigate ITS Alpino) is currently in Goa.
- Passage Exercises (PASSEX) were conducted to improve interoperability between the two navies.
| A PASSEX, or Passage Exercise, is a naval exercise that allows two navies to practise communicating and cooperating in times of war or humanitarian relief. The exercises are usually conducted when an opportunity arises, rather than as pre-planned maritime drills. |
b) Maritime Security
- Italy joined the Information Fusion Centre of the Indian Ocean Region in Gurugram in March 2023 to bolster maritime security through information sharing and enhanced domain awareness.
- Both countries collaborate in EU naval operations like EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, contributing to security in the Red Sea and Indian Ocean through intelligence sharing.
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| The main goal of Fusion Centre of the Indian Ocean Region is to strengthen maritime security, enhance Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) by sharing information, developing expertise, and coordinating activities with partner nations and agencies. |
c) Defense Industry Cooperation
- Italian firms, such as Fincantieri, have partnered with Cochin Shipyard since 2020 to enhance defence capabilities.
- Elettronica signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bharat Electronics Limited in 2019, focusing on joint ventures, co-production, and technology transfers aligned with India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.
d) Humanitarian Cooperation
- During ITS Cavour’s visit(October 2024), ‘Operation Smile‘ was conducted, where Indian and Italian doctors performed surgeries on children with facial malformations.
e) Cultural Exchange
- The planned visit of ITS Amerigo Vespucci to Mumbai from November 28 to December 2, 2024, aims to host cultural events, promoting people-to-people ties.
- A proposal to establish an ‘Italy Village’ in Mumbai will showcase Italian culture through fashion and culinary events.
f) Regional Development
- There is potential alignment between Italy’s Mattei Plan for Africa and India’s development initiatives in the region, fostering collaborative growth.
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Conclusion
Enhanced cooperation between India and Italy in the Indo-Mediterranean region presents significant opportunities to address mutual challenges and promote regional stability. By leveraging their strategic partnership across defence, economic, and cultural dimensions, both nations can strengthen their global influence and foster sustainable development.
October 4, 2024
