India and Italy have announced that 2027 will be celebrated as the “Year of Culture and Tourism” as both nations seek to deepen people-to-people ties and strengthen engagement between two ancient civilisations. The announcement followed high-level discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during bilateral talks focused on expanding cooperation across culture, trade, tourism, and strategic sectors.
The initiative aims to encourage cultural exchanges, tourism promotion, academic collaborations, exhibitions, and greater interaction between artists, scholars, and youth from both countries. Officials stated that the celebration will highlight the rich historical heritage of India and Italy while promoting a stronger understanding among citizens.
The leaders also discussed strengthening economic and strategic cooperation, including progress on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). Both sides emphasised the importance of stronger global partnerships amid changing geopolitical conditions.
India and Italy have witnessed growing bilateral engagement in recent years, particularly in defence, clean energy, manufacturing, and cultural diplomacy. The declaration of 2027 as the Year of Culture and Tourism is expected to further boost tourism flows and long-term cultural cooperation between the two countries.
