Italian Envoy Highlights Deepening Ties with India as Amerigo Vespucci Docks in Mumbai

Mumbai: The Amerigo Vespucci, Italy’s historic naval training ship and a symbol of maritime excellence, has docked at Mumbai’s Indira Dock as part of its global voyage. Italian Ambassador to India, Antonio Bartoli, underscored the visit significance during a press briefing, emphasizing its role in strengthening the already deepening relations between the two nations. Ambassador Bartoli highlighted the visit of the ship from November 28 to December 2, 2024, as a historic moment coinciding with an unprecedented phase of bilateral ties between India and Italy. “The arrival of the Vespucci marks a turning point for our relations, matured over five meetings between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni in the past two years. The agreements signed at the G20 Summit in Rio outline immense potential across trade, energy, and defence,” Mr. Bartoli said. Speaking about economic collaboration, Mr. Bartoli noted the surge in trade between the two countries, which has reached $14 billion annually. He stressed the importance of the India- EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), urging flexibility from both sides. “High duties remain a hurdle to trade growth. The FTA, once finalized, will pave the way for greater economic collaboration,” he added. The ambassador also emphasized demographic and economic synergies between the two nations. “India’s young population, averaging 28 years in age, represents a huge opportunity for Italy’s industries. We aim to collaborate in sectors like manufacturing and healthcare, with projects such as recruiting and training Indian nurses to address Italy’s skilled workforce shortage,” Mr. Bartoli said. He described the Vespucci as “a bridge between cultures, bringing a message of peace and solidarity.” Built in 1931, the Amerigo Vespucci is often hailed as the most beautiful ship in the world.
Serving as a naval training vessel for the Italian Navy, it combines tradition with modernity, symbolizing Italy’s rich maritime legacy. This marks the Vespucci’s first visit to India, with its current voyage covering over 30 ports across five continents. Docked at Green Gate, Indira Dock, the ship features preserved interiors that narrate nearly a century of naval history. Accompanying the vessel is the Villaggio Italia, an interactive exhibition showcasing Italian art, design, technology, and cuisine. Highlights include live music by the Italian Air Force band, cultural exhibitions, and cutting-edge technological showcases.
According to Luca Andreoli, CEO of Italy’s Ministry of Defence-owned Difesa Servizi, the Vespucci’s mission goes beyond training. “This ship fosters bonds between the Italian way of life and the world. Its message is one of peace, culture, and shared values,” he said. India-Italy Strategic Partnership India and Italy are experiencing a renaissance in bilateral relations, marked by a shared commitment to global stability and sustainable development. The two nations recently unveiled a Joint Strategic Action Plan (2025–2029) at the G20 Summit, focusing on cooperation in trade, defence, and energy. Italy’s growing interest in the Indo-Pacific aligns with India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative. Collaborative efforts include naval exercises and Italy’s participation as an observer at the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region. Italy’s recent deployment of its aircraft carrier ITS Cavour and the joint sailing of Amerigo Vespucci with Indian Navy’s INS Tarangini underscore the strengthening maritime ties.
A standout feature of the partnership is the commitment to co-develop and co-produce defence technologies under India’s Make in India initiative. Italian firms like Leonardo and Fincantieri are poised to collaborate with Indian companies, fostering innovation and boosting defence capabilities. Highlighting the maritime camaraderie between the two nations, the Indian Navy’s INS Tarangini conducted a joint sailing exercise with the Amerigo Vespucci off the coast of Kochi on November 22. The exercise included sail manoeuvres, best practice exchanges, and training drills, symbolizing the enduring friendship between the navies. INS Tarangini, a sail training ship pivotal in preparing Indian naval cadets, has participated in numerous global goodwill missions. The joint exercise reinforced the shared seafaring traditions of India and Italy, reflecting their commitment to fostering international cooperation.

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