Internet culture blends with high-stakes global diplomacy in France
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni shared a lighthearted moment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Evian, jokingly declaring them the most famous couple on Instagram. Caught on a hot mic during their official greeting, the candid remark highlights the strong personal chemistry between the two world leaders. This playful interaction follows a string of viral social media moments, including a previous meeting where PM Modi gifted Meloni "Melody" candies, playing into the popular internet moniker "Melodi."
Stronger Ties Beyond Social Media
Behind the digital camaraderie lies a significant shift in bilateral relations, as New Delhi and Rome recently upgraded their relationship to a Special Strategic Partnership. This growing alliance reflects India's expanding footprint in European geopolitics, balancing traditional security interests with modern economic ties.
Summit Sidebars and Lifestyle Shifts
Apart from her interaction with the Indian Prime Minister, Meloni shared other personal updates with fellow world leaders during the gathering. European media outlets reported a separate conversation where the Italian leader revealed she had successfully quit smoking a month ago. This development follows a previous encounter where Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan vowed to help her break the habit, while French President Emmanuel Macron jokingly dismissed the idea as impossible. Meloni quipped that giving up cigarettes might test her patience during intense diplomatic sessions.
Global Leaders Target Organized Crime
Security dominated the formal agenda alongside these personal exchanges. Leaders at the 52nd G7 Summit adopted a major declaration aimed at dismantling international drug trafficking networks and money laundering operations. Backed by guest nations Brazil and South Korea, the coalition pledged to secure maritime routes and freeze criminal finances to protect democratic institutions from illicit syndicates.
With Inputs from Agency Threads and Image Courtesy: ANI
