Leaders of advanced economies are gearing up for the annual G7 meeting in Italy. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is amongst the attendees who has reached Italy to participate in the 50th G7 Summit. He will likely meet US President Joe Biden and Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

G7 Summit Italy: PM Modi to hold bilateral talks with world leaders; what's on his agenda?

Now Italy which is holding G7 meeting witnessed unruly scenes in its Parliament. A brawl broke out in the parliament resulting in the apparent injury of one lawmaker who had to leave the chamber in a wheelchair

Italy: Lawmakers engage in fistfight in Parliament amid ongoing G7 summit in the nation

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Italy to attend the 50th edition of the G7 meeting now this is his first visit to a foreign country after recently assuming office as a Prime Minister for the third consecutive term.

G7 Summit: PM Modi lands in Italy; likely to hold bilateral talks with world leaders

Leaders of advanced economies are gearing up for the annual G7 meeting in Italy. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is amongst the attendees who has reached Italy to participate in the 50th G7 Summit. He will likely meet US President Joe Biden.

G7 summit Italy: What's on PM Modi's agenda? | PM Modi to hold several bilateral talks

Indian PM Modi is set to travel to Italy this week. He is going to attend the G7 summit. The G7 summit is scheduled to take place from June 13 to 15. Italy is holding the current Presidency of the G7.

Italy: Leaders of advanced economies to attend 50th G7 summit

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to attend the summit of the Group of Seven, known as G7, in Italy's Apulia region.

In his departure statement ahead of his visit, PM Modi said that&nbsp;he was glad that his first foreign visit after assuming office for the third consecutive term was to Italy.

"At the invitation of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, I am travelling to the Apulia region in Italy to participate in the G7 Outreach Summit on 14 June 2024. I am glad that my first visit in the third consecutive term is to Italy for the G-7 Summit," read the statement.

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At the invitation of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, I am travelling to Apulia region in Italy to participate in the G7 Outreach Summit on 14 June 2024. I am glad that my first visit in the third consecutive term is to Italy for the G-7 Summit...During the discussions at the… <a href="https://t.co/4g8dA6U0nP">pic.twitter.com/4g8dA6U0nP</a>
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PM Modi is travelling to Italy's Apulia region to take part in the G7 Outreach Summit on June 14 at his Italian counterpart Meloni's invitation.

In the statement, he said that the G7 Outreach Summit would provide an opportunity to deliberate on critical issues for the Global South.&nbsp;

"It will be an opportunity to bring greater synergy between the outcomes of the G20 Summit held under India's Presidency and the forthcoming G7 Summit, and deliberate on issues which are crucial for the Global South," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g7-summit-italy-pm-giorgia-meloni-prefers-namaste-over-handshake-greets-leaders-with-folded-hands-731501">Also read:&nbsp;G7 Summit: Italy PM Giorgia Meloni prefers Namaste over handshake, greets leaders with folded hands</a>

He further said that he was looking forward to meeting the other leaders who were participating in the summit.

"I warmly recall my visit to Italy for the G20 Summit in 2021. Prime Minister Meloni's two visits to India last year were instrumental in infusing momentum and depth in our bilateral agenda. We remain committed to consolidate the India-Italy strategic partnership, and bolster cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and the Mediterranean regions," he added.

The statement further highlighted that the discussions at the Outreach session will focus on artificial intelligence, energy, Africa, and the Mediterranean.&nbsp;

<h2>Review of bilateral relations&nbsp;</h2>

PM Modi and Italian PM Meloni are expected to meet on the sidelines of the summit and review their bilateral relations to chart a course for future collaboration. &nbsp;

India's participation in the G7 has evolved over time and is reflecting its growing economic and geopolitical significance. While India is not a member of the G7, it has been invited to participate in several G7 summits as a guest country.&nbsp;

This is India's eleventh participation in a G7 summit and PM Modi's fifth consecutive attendance. On June 14, PM Modi will participate in the outreach session alongside other invited countries.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to attend the summit of the Group of Seven, known as G7, in Italy's Apulia region. In his departure statement ahead of his visit, PM Modi said that he was glad that his first foreign visit after assuming office for the third consecutive term was to Italy.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to attend the summit of the Group of Seven, known as G7, in Italy's Apulia region. In his departure statement ahead of his visit, PM Modi said that he was glad that his first foreign visit after assuming office for the third consecutive term was to Italy. "At the invitation of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, I am travelling to the Apulia region in Italy to participate in the G7 Outreach Summit on 14 June 2024. I am glad that my first visit in the third consecutive term is to Italy for the G-7 Summit," read the statement. At the invitation of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, I am travelling to Apulia region in Italy to participate in the G7 Outreach Summit on 14 June 2024. I am glad that my first visit in the third consecutive term is to Italy for the G-7 Summit...During the discussions at the… pic.twitter.com/4g8dA6U0nP — ANI (@ANI) June 13, 2024 × PM Modi is travelling to Italy's Apulia region to take part in the G7 Outreach Summit on June 14 at his Italian counterpart Meloni's invitation. In the statement, he said that the G7 Outreach Summit would provide an opportunity to deliberate on critical issues for the Global South. "It will be an opportunity to bring greater synergy between the outcomes of the G20 Summit held under India's Presidency and the forthcoming G7 Summit, and deliberate on issues which are crucial for the Global South," he said. Also read: G7 Summit: Italy PM Giorgia Meloni prefers Namaste over handshake, greets leaders with folded hands He further said that he was looking forward to meeting the other leaders who were participating in the summit. "I warmly recall my visit to Italy for the G20 Summit in 2021. Prime Minister Meloni's two visits to India last year were instrumental in infusing momentum and depth in our bilateral agenda. We remain committed to consolidate the India-Italy strategic partnership, and bolster cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and the Mediterranean regions," he added. The statement further highlighted that the discussions at the Outreach session will focus on artificial intelligence, energy, Africa, and the Mediterranean. Review of bilateral relations PM Modi and Italian PM Meloni are expected to meet on the sidelines of the summit and review their bilateral relations to chart a course for future collaboration. India's participation in the G7 has evolved over time and is reflecting its growing economic and geopolitical significance. While India is not a member of the G7, it has been invited to participate in several G7 summits as a guest country. This is India's eleventh participation in a G7 summit and PM Modi's fifth consecutive attendance. On June 14, PM Modi will participate in the outreach session alongside other invited countries. (With inputs from agencies)

G7 Summit: 'Glad my first visit in 3rd term is to Italy', says PM Modi

Italy which is holding a G7 meeting witnessed unruly scenes in its Parliament. A brawl broke out in the parliament resulting in the apparent injury of one lawmaker who had to leave the chamber in a wheelchair.

Fistfight between Italian lawmakers as they discussed a bill over local autonomies

Italy: G7 summit opens today, PM Modi to attend; bilaterals expected on sidelines of G7 meet

Leaders of advanced economies are gearing up for the annual G7 meeting in Italy. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is amongst the attendees who will depart for Italy to participate in the 50th G7 Summit.

G7 Summit 2024: Summit to tackle issues from wars in Ukraine, West Asia to China

G7 Summit 2024: Leaders of advanced economies to attend 50th G7 summit

G7 summit: PM Modi to attend summit in Italy

Italy hosts G7 Summit: PM Modi & Italian PM Meloni to hold bilateral meeting |

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India's Ministry of External Affairs on Wednesday (June 12) slammed the "vandalisation" of Mahatma Gandhi's statue in Italy by pro-Khalistani elements and said that the matter was taken up with the Italian authorities.

The MEA further noted that "a suitable rectification" had taken place.

"We have seen the reports and taken it up with the Italian authorities. We understand that a suitable rectification has already been made. The effort to vandalise the statue, which is, of course, deplorable, has been addressed and the necessary rectification done," Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra said on Wednesday at a special briefing.

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&nbsp;

A bust of Mahatma Gandhi was on Wednesday (June 12) vandalised by Khalistani extremists just hours after it was inaugurated.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-to-attend-50th-g7-summit-in-italy-first-international-trip-since-re-election-731159">PM Modi to attend 50th G7 summit in Italy, first international trip since re-election</a>

At the base of the bust, the extremists also wrote controversial slogans that were related to slain Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar who was shot dead in Canada last year.&nbsp;

This comes just a day before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to Italy where he will participate in the 50th G7 Summit, which will take place on June 13 and 14.&nbsp;

The visit will mark his first overseas travel after assuming office in his third consecutive term.

Last year, the Khalistani elements had defaced BAPS Shri Swaminarayan temple in Australia's Sydney ahead of PM Modi's visit.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Ministry of External Affairs on Wednesday (June 12) slammed the "vandalisation" of Mahatma Gandhi's statue in Italy by pro-Khalistani elements and said that the matter was taken up with the Italian authorities.

India's Ministry of External Affairs on Wednesday (June 12) slammed the "vandalisation" of Mahatma Gandhi's statue in Italy by pro-Khalistani elements and said that the matter was taken up with the Italian authorities. The MEA further noted that "a suitable rectification" had taken place. "We have seen the reports and taken it up with the Italian authorities. We understand that a suitable rectification has already been made. The effort to vandalise the statue, which is, of course, deplorable, has been addressed and the necessary rectification done," Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra said on Wednesday at a special briefing. #WATCH | On a statue of Mahatma Gandhi vandalised in Italy's Milan allegedly by pro-Khalistani elements, Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra says, "...We have seen the reports of that and we have taken it up with the Italian authorities. We understand that a suitable… pic.twitter.com/9TTYzViRvv — ANI (@ANI) June 12, 2024 × A bust of Mahatma Gandhi was on Wednesday (June 12) vandalised by Khalistani extremists just hours after it was inaugurated. Also read: PM Modi to attend 50th G7 summit in Italy, first international trip since re-election At the base of the bust, the extremists also wrote controversial slogans that were related to slain Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar who was shot dead in Canada last year. This comes just a day before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to Italy where he will participate in the 50th G7 Summit, which will take place on June 13 and 14. The visit will mark his first overseas travel after assuming office in his third consecutive term. Last year, the Khalistani elements had defaced BAPS Shri Swaminarayan temple in Australia's Sydney ahead of PM Modi's visit. (With inputs from agencies)

Mahatma Gandhi's statue 'vandalised' by Khalistani extremists in Italy ahead of PM Modi's visit

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to depart for Italy on Thursday (June 13) to attend the 50th G7 Summit, scheduled for June 13 and 14. He well also hold bilateral meeting with Italian PM Giorgia Meloni during his trip.&nbsp;The Group of Seven (G7) is an informal forum of Italy, Germany, Canada, France, the United Kingdom, Japan and the US.

The visit will be PM Modi's first international trip in the wake of his third consecutive term in power after his NDA alliance secured a win in the country's 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

The summit is due to be held in the city of Fasano in Apulia, Italy where&nbsp;leaders of the seven member states, including European Council and European Commission Presidents will also mark their presence. The visit by the Indian prime minister comes as Meloni extended an invitation for participation.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-police-charge-man-who-hurled-objects-at-british-right-wing-leader-nigel-farage-731139">UK police charge man who hurled objects at British right-wing leader Nigel Farage</a>

During a special briefing on the upcoming visit, Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra on Wednesday said, "At the invitation of Prime Minister of Italy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be travelling to Apulia, Italy tomorrow to participate in the 50th G7 Summit which is to be held there on June 14 where India has been invited as an Outreach Country."

Kwatra also spoke on the importance the summit holds for India. He said, "It will also afford him an opportunity to engage with other world leaders present at the G7 Summit on issues of importance to India as also to the Global South."&nbsp;

<h2>Review of bilateral relations&nbsp;</h2>

PM Modi and Italian PM Meloni are expected to meet on the sidelines of the summit and review their bilateral relations to chart a course for future collaboration.&nbsp;

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India's participation in the G7 has evolved over time and is reflecting its growing economic and geopolitical significance. While India is not a member of the G7, it has been invited to participate in several G7 summits as a guest country.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kuwait-fire-40-indians-killed-in-kuwait-building-fire-new-delhi-expresses-shock-over-incident-731154">Kuwait fire: 40 Indians killed in Kuwait building fire, New Delhi expresses shock over incident</a>

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This is India's eleventh participation in a G7 summit and PM Modi's fifth consecutive attendance. On June 14, PM Modi will participate in the outreach session alongside other invited countries.

"PM's participation in the G7 summit would also provide a timely opportunity to follow up outcomes of the G20 Summit held under India's presidency last year and deliberate on issues focused on the global south," Kwatra&nbsp;said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to depart for Italy on Thursday (June 13) to attend the 50th G7 Summit, scheduled for June 13 and 14. He well also hold bilateral meeting with Italian PM Giorgia Meloni during his trip.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to depart for Italy on Thursday (June 13) to attend the 50th G7 Summit, scheduled for June 13 and 14. He well also hold bilateral meeting with Italian PM Giorgia Meloni during his trip. The Group of Seven (G7) is an informal forum of Italy, Germany, Canada, France, the United Kingdom, Japan and the US. The visit will be PM Modi's first international trip in the wake of his third consecutive term in power after his NDA alliance secured a win in the country's 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The summit is due to be held in the city of Fasano in Apulia, Italy where leaders of the seven member states, including European Council and European Commission Presidents will also mark their presence. The visit by the Indian prime minister comes as Meloni extended an invitation for participation. Also Read | UK police charge man who hurled objects at British right-wing leader Nigel Farage During a special briefing on the upcoming visit, Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra on Wednesday said, "At the invitation of Prime Minister of Italy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be travelling to Apulia, Italy tomorrow to participate in the 50th G7 Summit which is to be held there on June 14 where India has been invited as an Outreach Country." Kwatra also spoke on the importance the summit holds for India. He said, "It will also afford him an opportunity to engage with other world leaders present at the G7 Summit on issues of importance to India as also to the Global South." Review of bilateral relations PM Modi and Italian PM Meloni are expected to meet on the sidelines of the summit and review their bilateral relations to chart a course for future collaboration. Also Read | Global oil surplus to hit millions of barrels daily by 2030 amid slowing demand, rising production India's participation in the G7 has evolved over time and is reflecting its growing economic and geopolitical significance. While India is not a member of the G7, it has been invited to participate in several G7 summits as a guest country. Watch | Kuwait fire: 40 Indians killed in Kuwait building fire, New Delhi expresses shock over incident × This is India's eleventh participation in a G7 summit and PM Modi's fifth consecutive attendance. On June 14, PM Modi will participate in the outreach session alongside other invited countries. "PM's participation in the G7 summit would also provide a timely opportunity to follow up outcomes of the G20 Summit held under India's presidency last year and deliberate on issues focused on the global south," Kwatra said. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi to attend 50th G7 summit in Italy, first international trip since re-election

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's far-right party secured the majority of votes and emerged victorious in the European parliamentary election, depicted the early trends on Monday (June 10).

"Thank you," Meloni said. "It seems that the Italian system is, so to speak, again, becoming a bipolar system. It's good news."

As per the projected forecasts based on the early count, Meloni's party Brothers of Italy polled 28 per cent of votes, demonstrating a sharp rise from its performance in the previous EU election in the year 2019 and also surpassing the 26 per cent she received during the September 2022 national elections, when the party rose to power.

Taking to her official X account, she thanked the voters as she posted a picture flashing the victory symbol.

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GRAZIE! 🇮🇹<a href="https://twitter.com/FratellidItalia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FratellidItalia</a> si conferma primo partito italiano, superando il risultato delle scorse elezioni politiche. <a href="https://t.co/uYHHm4Nm6S">pic.twitter.com/uYHHm4Nm6S</a>
— Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) <a href="https://twitter.com/GiorgiaMeloni/status/1799933921117020255?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The second in the list was the opposition centre-left Democratic Party, which secured 23.7 per cent with another opposition group, the 5-Star Movement, with 10.5 per cent.

The EU ballot showed that Meloni's ruling coalition, which comprised of parties that go on from the centre-right to the far right of the political scope,&nbsp;witnessed its support shoot up to over 46 per cent from less than 43 per cent in the year 2022.

"I think this vote is certainly going to strengthen the government," said Licia Ronzulli, a senator with the ruling coalition Forza Italia party.

Forza Italia, founded by the late Silvio Berlusconi, stood up fourth in the list as it secured 10 per cent.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-dials-italian-counterpart-meloni-thanks-her-for-invite-to-g7-summit-outreach-session-715002">Also read:&nbsp;PM Modi dials Italian counterpart Meloni, thanks her for invite to G7 Summit Outreach Session</a>

<h2>Macron calls snap elections in France</h2>

Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday (Jun 9) announced that he was dissolving the parliament after the far-right defeated his centrist alliance in EU polls. Macron called snap legislative elections on June 30 and July 7.

Macron said that he can't pretend nothing has happened and that the outcome of the EU election is "not a good result for parties who defend Europe". He added the rise of nationalists was a danger for France and Europe.&nbsp;

The National Rally (RN) party inflicted a heavy defeat on Macron's camp. It scored over double the number of votes of the head of state's centrist alliance, projections indicated.&nbsp;

Projections published by several polling firms showed that the RN's list, led by Jordan Bardella, gained between 32.3 and 33 per cent of the vote compared with 14.8 to 15.2 per cent for Macron's alliance, which was led by his Renaissance party.&nbsp;

"Far right parties... are progressing everywhere in the continent. It is a situation to which I cannot resign myself," Macron said.&nbsp;

"I decided to give you the choice... Therefore I will dissolve the National Assembly tonight.&nbsp;

"This decision is serious and heavy but it is an act of confidence. Confidence in you, dear compatriots, and in the capacity of the French people to make the best choice for itself and future generations."&nbsp;

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition also suffered a defeat as all three parties in his government are trailing the conservatives and the far right, according to preliminary results.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's far-right party secured the majority of votes and emerged victorious in the European parliamentary election, depicted the early trends on Monday (June 10).

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's far-right party secured the majority of votes and emerged victorious in the European parliamentary election, depicted the early trends on Monday (June 10). "Thank you," Meloni said. "It seems that the Italian system is, so to speak, again, becoming a bipolar system. It's good news." As per the projected forecasts based on the early count, Meloni's party Brothers of Italy polled 28 per cent of votes, demonstrating a sharp rise from its performance in the previous EU election in the year 2019 and also surpassing the 26 per cent she received during the September 2022 national elections, when the party rose to power. Taking to her official X account, she thanked the voters as she posted a picture flashing the victory symbol. GRAZIE! 🇮🇹@FratellidItalia si conferma primo partito italiano, superando il risultato delle scorse elezioni politiche. pic.twitter.com/uYHHm4Nm6S — Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) June 9, 2024 × The second in the list was the opposition centre-left Democratic Party, which secured 23.7 per cent with another opposition group, the 5-Star Movement, with 10.5 per cent. The EU ballot showed that Meloni's ruling coalition, which comprised of parties that go on from the centre-right to the far right of the political scope, witnessed its support shoot up to over 46 per cent from less than 43 per cent in the year 2022. "I think this vote is certainly going to strengthen the government," said Licia Ronzulli, a senator with the ruling coalition Forza Italia party. Forza Italia, founded by the late Silvio Berlusconi, stood up fourth in the list as it secured 10 per cent. Also read: PM Modi dials Italian counterpart Meloni, thanks her for invite to G7 Summit Outreach Session Macron calls snap elections in France Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday (Jun 9) announced that he was dissolving the parliament after the far-right defeated his centrist alliance in EU polls. Macron called snap legislative elections on June 30 and July 7. Macron said that he can't pretend nothing has happened and that the outcome of the EU election is "not a good result for parties who defend Europe". He added the rise of nationalists was a danger for France and Europe. The National Rally (RN) party inflicted a heavy defeat on Macron's camp. It scored over double the number of votes of the head of state's centrist alliance, projections indicated. Projections published by several polling firms showed that the RN's list, led by Jordan Bardella, gained between 32.3 and 33 per cent of the vote compared with 14.8 to 15.2 per cent for Macron's alliance, which was led by his Renaissance party. "Far right parties... are progressing everywhere in the continent. It is a situation to which I cannot resign myself," Macron said. "I decided to give you the choice... Therefore I will dissolve the National Assembly tonight. "This decision is serious and heavy but it is an act of confidence. Confidence in you, dear compatriots, and in the capacity of the French people to make the best choice for itself and future generations." German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition also suffered a defeat as all three parties in his government are trailing the conservatives and the far right, according to preliminary results. (With inputs from agencies)

Italy's PM Giorgia Meloni secures decisive victory in EU vote

As the new Indian government, under Narendra Modi, prepares to take office, a busy foreign policy agenda awaits, with both high-level incoming and outgoing visits. Modi's 3rd term begins with the high-profile oath-taking ceremony on Sunday (June 9), attended by leaders of the seven neighbouring countries, from the western arch of the Indian Ocean to the Himalayas.&nbsp;

The list of dignitaries includes Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, Seychelles Vice-President Ahmed Afif, Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', and Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-his-india-visit-maldives-president-muizzu-says-ties-are-heading-in-a-positive-direction-729851">Ahead of his India visit for Modi swearing-in, Maldives Prez Muizzu says ties heading in positive direction</a>

Following the inauguration, the new government's first foreign policy engagement involves bilateral meetings with each visiting leader with a focus on connectivity to developing&nbsp;partnership under Delhi's neighbourhood first policy. Maldives President's presence shows ties coming back on track between the two&nbsp;countries.&nbsp;

Next on the agenda is the BRICS foreign ministers meeting in Russia, scheduled for next week. With portfolio allocations yet to be announced for the Ministry of External Affairs, details on Indian representation are awaited.&nbsp;

PM Modi's first international visit post-inauguration will be to Italy for the G7 summit in Fasano, Apulia, from June 13 to 15. The West-led grouping will see Modi sharing the stage with U.S. President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Additionally, over ten other countries, including UAE, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Ukraine, Brazil, Argentina and the Vatican are invited.

Watch:&nbsp;PM Narendra Modi swearing-in ceremony: Security increased for PM Modi's swearing-in

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While there is no confirmation on specific bilateral meetings, the gathering offers ample opportunities for the Indian PM to engage with multiple world leaders. Protocol dictates a bilateral meeting with the host, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. While a meeting with Zelenskyy on the sidelines could be a possibility, Modi's attendance at the Swiss peace summit seems unlikely due to the new Parliament session likely commencing on June 15.

Post-G7, U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan will visit Delhi to engage the new government on U.S.-India priorities, including the strategic technology partnership under the Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) initiative.

The White House readout of the Modi-Biden congratulatory call confirmed the visit. The readout said the visit would be to "engage the new government on shared U.S.-India priorities, including the trusted, strategic technology partnership." His visit to Delhi, for the Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) initiative has been postponed in the past.

In early July, Modi will attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Astana, Kazakhstan. This summit brings together leaders from Russia, China, Pakistan, Iran, and Central Asian countries. While Modi will likely have numerous bilateral meetings, any progress on Indo-China or Indo-Pakistan relations remains improbable. 
&nbsp;

As the new Indian government, under Narendra Modi, prepares to take office, a busy foreign policy agenda awaits, with both high-level incoming and outgoing visits.

As the new Indian government, under Narendra Modi, prepares to take office, a busy foreign policy agenda awaits, with both high-level incoming and outgoing visits. Modi's 3rd term begins with the high-profile oath-taking ceremony on Sunday (June 9), attended by leaders of the seven neighbouring countries, from the western arch of the Indian Ocean to the Himalayas. The list of dignitaries includes Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, Seychelles Vice-President Ahmed Afif, Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', and Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. Also Read: Ahead of his India visit for Modi swearing-in, Maldives Prez Muizzu says ties heading in positive direction Following the inauguration, the new government's first foreign policy engagement involves bilateral meetings with each visiting leader with a focus on connectivity to developing partnership under Delhi's neighbourhood first policy. Maldives President's presence shows ties coming back on track between the two countries. Next on the agenda is the BRICS foreign ministers meeting in Russia, scheduled for next week. With portfolio allocations yet to be announced for the Ministry of External Affairs, details on Indian representation are awaited. PM Modi's first international visit post-inauguration will be to Italy for the G7 summit in Fasano, Apulia, from June 13 to 15. The West-led grouping will see Modi sharing the stage with U.S. President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Additionally, over ten other countries, including UAE, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Ukraine, Brazil, Argentina and the Vatican are invited. Watch: PM Narendra Modi swearing-in ceremony: Security increased for PM Modi's swearing-in While there is no confirmation on specific bilateral meetings, the gathering offers ample opportunities for the Indian PM to engage with multiple world leaders. Protocol dictates a bilateral meeting with the host, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. While a meeting with Zelenskyy on the sidelines could be a possibility, Modi's attendance at the Swiss peace summit seems unlikely due to the new Parliament session likely commencing on June 15. Post-G7, U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan will visit Delhi to engage the new government on U.S.-India priorities, including the strategic technology partnership under the Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) initiative. The White House readout of the Modi-Biden congratulatory call confirmed the visit. The readout said the visit would be to "engage the new government on shared U.S.-India priorities, including the trusted, strategic technology partnership." His visit to Delhi, for the Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) initiative has been postponed in the past. In early July, Modi will attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Astana, Kazakhstan. This summit brings together leaders from Russia, China, Pakistan, Iran, and Central Asian countries. While Modi will likely have numerous bilateral meetings, any progress on Indo-China or Indo-Pakistan relations remains improbable.

Italy and Kazakhstan summits top diplomatic agenda for new Indian government

Italy voted in to elect the members of European Union's next parliament on Saturday (June 8), in a test of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's popularity in the key European nation. Most of European Union's 27 member nations, including France and Germany, will go to polls on Sunday (June 9), with projected overall results due late evening.&nbsp;

The polling stations have opened in the French Pacific territory on New Caledonia where deadly riots erupted towards the end of last month.&nbsp;

<h2>Italy's role in EU elections: What does it mean?</h2>

Italy has 76 of 720 seats in the post-Brexit EU parliament. As the European Union's third largest economy, Rome carries significant influence in the EU after the exit of Britain from the bloc.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni cast her vote in Rome constituency and told reporters that the elections will "shape the next five years".

Polls suggest that Giorgia Meloni's Brothers of Italy party could win up to 27 per cent of vote, more than four times its 2019 score amid a broader surge of the far-right groups across the Europe.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-the-bittersweet-melodi-in-india-italy-ties-during-swaraj-jaishankar-years-667672">Explained: The bittersweet 'melodi' in India-Italy ties during Swaraj-Jaishankar years</a>

A victory for the Brothers of Italy could establish Prime Minister Meloni as a powerbroker. Meloni's future political decisions in the EU following the results of these elections would determine whether EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen get the backing she needs from both EU member states and the parliament for a second term.

But critics are warning against overestimating Meloni's influence.

"Meloni will have an influence on Italian interests, at the commission, in parliament," one EU diplomat told news agency AFP on the condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

"She will play the game. But does that make her a kingmaker? No."

Also watch |&nbsp;EU Parliament elections: Voting underway on the third day of elections

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Prime Minister Meloni rose to power in 2022 amid concerns over irregular flow of illegal migrants across the Mediterranean.&nbsp;

Immigration continues to be the key issue that is driving the support to parties perceived as far-right. Such parties are forecast to win at least a quarter of EU parliament seats but the centrist mainstream parties are still most likely to come on top.

(With inputs from agencies)

Italy voted in to elect the members of European Union's next parliament on Saturday (June 8), in a test of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's popularity in the key European nation.

Italy voted in to elect the members of European Union's next parliament on Saturday (June 8), in a test of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's popularity in the key European nation. Most of European Union's 27 member nations, including France and Germany, will go to polls on Sunday (June 9), with projected overall results due late evening. The polling stations have opened in the French Pacific territory on New Caledonia where deadly riots erupted towards the end of last month. Italy's role in EU elections: What does it mean? Italy has 76 of 720 seats in the post-Brexit EU parliament. As the European Union's third largest economy, Rome carries significant influence in the EU after the exit of Britain from the bloc. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni cast her vote in Rome constituency and told reporters that the elections will "shape the next five years". Polls suggest that Giorgia Meloni's Brothers of Italy party could win up to 27 per cent of vote, more than four times its 2019 score amid a broader surge of the far-right groups across the Europe. Also read | Explained: The bittersweet 'melodi' in India-Italy ties during Swaraj-Jaishankar years A victory for the Brothers of Italy could establish Prime Minister Meloni as a powerbroker. Meloni's future political decisions in the EU following the results of these elections would determine whether EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen get the backing she needs from both EU member states and the parliament for a second term. But critics are warning against overestimating Meloni's influence. "Meloni will have an influence on Italian interests, at the commission, in parliament," one EU diplomat told news agency AFP on the condition of anonymity. "She will play the game. But does that make her a kingmaker? No." Also watch | EU Parliament elections: Voting underway on the third day of elections × Prime Minister Meloni rose to power in 2022 amid concerns over irregular flow of illegal migrants across the Mediterranean. Immigration continues to be the key issue that is driving the support to parties perceived as far-right. Such parties are forecast to win at least a quarter of EU parliament seats but the centrist mainstream parties are still most likely to come on top. (With inputs from agencies)

Italy votes in EU elections, with Giorgia Meloni most likely to emerge powerbroker

A centre-left Italian parliamentarian confronted Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Wednesday (June 5) during her visit to Albania. Riccardo Magi, from the More Europe party, walked towards Meloni's motorcade as she was leaving a meeting with her Albanian counterpart, Edi Rama.

Italian lawmaker confronts PM Meloni during her visit to Albania

An Italian court found American national Amanda Knox guilty of slander in a 2007 murder case that she wrongly blamed on someone else. The court sentences Amanda to three years in prison.

Italian Court finds Amanda Knox guilty of slander over 2007 murder case

Italian lawmaker confronts PM Meloni in Albania

Construction workers in Albania are working hard to transform a former military air base into an Italian-run migrant centre as Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visits for a progress-check.

Italy's Meloni visit Albania: Italy-run immigrant detention camp on agenda

The search for a young man who was swept away by a flash flood in Italy continued&nbsp;on Monday (Jun 3), a day after the bodies of his two female friends were found. Amid the search, a heartbreaking video of the incident emerged which shows the trio hugging moments before they were swept away by the floodwaters in a river in northern Italy.&nbsp;

<h2>Search for young man continues</h2>

Rescuers have deployed divers, drones, and helicopters to search for the young man who was among the three friends who got trapped on a gravel island in the middle of the Natisone River in the northeastern Italian region of Friuli Venezia Giulia.&nbsp;

In the footage, the trio identified as Patrizia Cormos (20), her friend Bianca Doros (23), and her boyfriend Cristian Molnar (25) were seen holding on to each other just seconds before they were swept away by the flash flood.&nbsp;

Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users.&nbsp;Viewer discretion is advised. WION is not responsible for the content of the video.

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🚨 BREAKING - ITALY FLOOD - This is the tragic moment where three friends Patrizia, Bianca and Molnar were seen hugging each other seconds before being swept away in a flash flood in Italy. 
 
They were last seen on Friday. 
 
-Daily Mail<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Italy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Italy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Flood?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Flood</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Emergency?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Emergency</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Breaking?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Breaking</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sad</a> <a href="https://t.co/TJnBYoNAsu">pic.twitter.com/TJnBYoNAsu</a>
— T R U T H P O L E (@Truthpolex) <a href="https://twitter.com/Truthpolex/status/1797338370403893728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The three friends were standing on a tiny pebble island when the river level suddenly began to rise reportedly after days of heavy rains in the region.&nbsp;

The bodies of Cormos and her friend Doros were found on Sunday (Jun 2) between 700 metres and one kilometre downstream of where they disappeared.&nbsp;

The rescue team that found the bodies described the scene as “heartbreaking”. They also found a handbag containing the mobile phone which made the emergency call. Rescuers on Monday continued the search for Molnar.&nbsp;

<h2>What we know about the incident</h2>

The three friends had reportedly decided to take a walk along the river last Friday (May 31) and ventured out onto a tiny gravel island when the level of the river suddenly began to rise and the trio got stuck.&nbsp;

The chief of the firefighters threw them a rope to pull themselves out of the river, but unfortunately, they were unable to do so.&nbsp;

“We threw them a rope, but they were literally swallowed up by the flood waters in front of our eyes. We watched them disappear,” said Giorgio Basile, fire service chief in the nearby city of Udine.

“Stay together, gather together, hug each other,” one firefighter had shouted at the group from a nearby bridge.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heartbreaking-reason-why-a-29-year-old-dutch-woman-chose-assisted-suicide-728210">Heartbreaking reason a 29-year-old Dutch woman chose assisted suicide</a>

The 20-year-old was a student and the 23-year-old was from Romania who had recently arrived in Italy to visit her parents. The 25-year-old was Doros’ boyfriend, also from Romania.&nbsp;

The mayor of Premariacco suggested that the trio could have saved themselves had they waded back to the riverbank immediately.&nbsp;

“The water had surrounded them, but it was still low. Maybe they decided not to move so as not to get their clothes and shoes wet. Unfortunately, the river was then flowing at tremendous speed,” said Mayor Michele De Sabata.&nbsp;

The mayor, speaking to the Corriere della Sera newspaper, also revealed that a fire service rescuer was just “seven metres away from them, but he was unable to do anything.”&nbsp;

He also acknowledged that it was sunny and the trio could not have predicted what was about to happen. De Sabata said that a rescue helicopter was also dispatched but arrived “a minute after the kids disappeared.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The search for a young man who was swept away by a flash flood in Italy continued on Monday (Jun 3), a day after the bodies of his two female friends were found.

The search for a young man who was swept away by a flash flood in Italy continued on Monday (Jun 3), a day after the bodies of his two female friends were found. Amid the search, a heartbreaking video of the incident emerged which shows the trio hugging moments before they were swept away by the floodwaters in a river in northern Italy. Search for young man continues Rescuers have deployed divers, drones, and helicopters to search for the young man who was among the three friends who got trapped on a gravel island in the middle of the Natisone River in the northeastern Italian region of Friuli Venezia Giulia. In the footage, the trio identified as Patrizia Cormos (20), her friend Bianca Doros (23), and her boyfriend Cristian Molnar (25) were seen holding on to each other just seconds before they were swept away by the flash flood. Content warning: The visuals may be disturbing to some users. Viewer discretion is advised. WION is not responsible for the content of the video. 🚨 BREAKING - ITALY FLOOD - This is the tragic moment where three friends Patrizia, Bianca and Molnar were seen hugging each other seconds before being swept away in a flash flood in Italy. They were last seen on Friday. -Daily Mail#Italy #Flood #Emergency #Breaking #Sad pic.twitter.com/TJnBYoNAsu — T R U T H P O L E (@Truthpolex) June 2, 2024 × The three friends were standing on a tiny pebble island when the river level suddenly began to rise reportedly after days of heavy rains in the region. The bodies of Cormos and her friend Doros were found on Sunday (Jun 2) between 700 metres and one kilometre downstream of where they disappeared. The rescue team that found the bodies described the scene as “heartbreaking”. They also found a handbag containing the mobile phone which made the emergency call. Rescuers on Monday continued the search for Molnar. What we know about the incident The three friends had reportedly decided to take a walk along the river last Friday (May 31) and ventured out onto a tiny gravel island when the level of the river suddenly began to rise and the trio got stuck. The chief of the firefighters threw them a rope to pull themselves out of the river, but unfortunately, they were unable to do so. “We threw them a rope, but they were literally swallowed up by the flood waters in front of our eyes. We watched them disappear,” said Giorgio Basile, fire service chief in the nearby city of Udine. “Stay together, gather together, hug each other,” one firefighter had shouted at the group from a nearby bridge. Also Read | Heartbreaking reason a 29-year-old Dutch woman chose assisted suicide The 20-year-old was a student and the 23-year-old was from Romania who had recently arrived in Italy to visit her parents. The 25-year-old was Doros’ boyfriend, also from Romania. The mayor of Premariacco suggested that the trio could have saved themselves had they waded back to the riverbank immediately. “The water had surrounded them, but it was still low. Maybe they decided not to move so as not to get their clothes and shoes wet. Unfortunately, the river was then flowing at tremendous speed,” said Mayor Michele De Sabata. The mayor, speaking to the Corriere della Sera newspaper, also revealed that a fire service rescuer was just “seven metres away from them, but he was unable to do anything.” He also acknowledged that it was sunny and the trio could not have predicted what was about to happen. De Sabata said that a rescue helicopter was also dispatched but arrived “a minute after the kids disappeared.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘Heartbreaking’: Three friends seen hugging before being swept away by floodwaters

In a hilarious turn of events, an Argentinian influencer, who recently went on a trip to Italy and booked a sea-facing room on B&amp;B, was allegedly scammed with a poster of the sea.

The woman, who paid a fortune for an idyllic “seaside” hotel room in Italy was stupefied and discovered that she had been duped.

While booking the hotel room, the influencer got carried away by an online advertisement showing the spectacular views it had to offer and paid through the nose for the promised “holiday of a lifetime” experience across Europe.

However, when the content creator checked in, she discovered that the so-called ocean vista was actually just a poster of the sea on the building on the other side of the road.

The woman shared the video on social media platforms, opening up about the bluff she experienced during her stay.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/emotional-rollercoaster-us-woman-discovers-her-euthanised-dog-available-for-adoption-725975">Emotional rollercoaster: US woman finds her ‘euthanised’ dog up for adoption</a>

“I feel scammed, guys,” the victim, Clarisa Murgia, captioned the now-viral clip, which boasts more than 3.1 million views on TikTok.

In the POV clip, titled “Expectation vs Reality” in Spanish, Murgia shows how, at first, the view does look quite real, However, when the camera pans closer, it becomes clear that the image is a poster, used to spruce up a narrow alley.

“No one has ever deceived me like this before, hahaha,” she declared in the clip.

Almost 2000 users left comments on the video, many expressing disappointment on behalf of Murgia and others making jokes.

TikTok commenters were amused by Murgia’s vacation catfishing, with one writing, “I am sorry, but this is hilarious.”

“I believed it for a moment,” confessed another.

“Not even my ex lied that much,” a user joked, while another said, “My luck in life is summarised in this video.”

One person pointed out that the ad was technically true as she did get an ocean view, it just wasn’t in the way she intended.

Notably, this is not a one-off incident. Earlier, a tourist had a strange experience after unexpectedly discovering a window view of a restaurant, where diners enjoyed their meals less than a foot away on the other side of the glass, as opposed to the promised gorgeous views of the city skyline in advertisement.

In a hilarious turn of events, an Argentinian influencer, who recently went on a trip to Italy and booked a sea-facing room on B&B, was allegedly scammed with a poster of the sea.

In a hilarious turn of events, an Argentinian influencer, who recently went on a trip to Italy and booked a sea-facing room on B&B, was allegedly scammed with a poster of the sea. The woman, who paid a fortune for an idyllic “seaside” hotel room in Italy was stupefied and discovered that she had been duped. While booking the hotel room, the influencer got carried away by an online advertisement showing the spectacular views it had to offer and paid through the nose for the promised “holiday of a lifetime” experience across Europe. However, when the content creator checked in, she discovered that the so-called ocean vista was actually just a poster of the sea on the building on the other side of the road. The woman shared the video on social media platforms, opening up about the bluff she experienced during her stay. Also read: Emotional rollercoaster: US woman finds her ‘euthanised’ dog up for adoption “I feel scammed, guys,” the victim, Clarisa Murgia, captioned the now-viral clip, which boasts more than 3.1 million views on TikTok. In the POV clip, titled “Expectation vs Reality” in Spanish, Murgia shows how, at first, the view does look quite real, However, when the camera pans closer, it becomes clear that the image is a poster, used to spruce up a narrow alley. “No one has ever deceived me like this before, hahaha,” she declared in the clip. Almost 2000 users left comments on the video, many expressing disappointment on behalf of Murgia and others making jokes. TikTok commenters were amused by Murgia’s vacation catfishing, with one writing, “I am sorry, but this is hilarious.” “I believed it for a moment,” confessed another. “Not even my ex lied that much,” a user joked, while another said, “My luck in life is summarised in this video.” One person pointed out that the ad was technically true as she did get an ocean view, it just wasn’t in the way she intended. Notably, this is not a one-off incident. Earlier, a tourist had a strange experience after unexpectedly discovering a window view of a restaurant, where diners enjoyed their meals less than a foot away on the other side of the glass, as opposed to the promised gorgeous views of the city skyline in advertisement.

DUPED! Woman books 'sea view' room. The view sure had a sea, but not quite.

Former Australia Test opener Joe Burns said Tuesday he will represent Italy in their bid to reach the 2026 T20 World Cup in tribute to his late brother. The 34-year-old, who has Italian heritage, will have 85 on his back for his new country -- the year of his brother's birth and the same number his sibling wore in local Australian cricket.

Burns, who lost his brother Dominic in February, played 23 Tests for Australia between 2014 and 2020. "This isn't just a number and this isn't just a jersey," Burns wrote on Instagram, together with a picture of an Italian team top with the number 85 on it. "This is for the people who I know will be looking down proudly from above."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/eng-vs-pak-england-captain-jos-buttler-to-miss-third-t20i-for-birth-of-child-726248">Eng vs Pak: England captain Jos Buttler to miss third T20I for birth of child</a>

Detailing his heartbreak at the death of his brother, Burns added: "While a part of my soul feels like it will always be missing, I know this shirt will carry on his spirit and give me strength."

Burns now looks set to feature for cricketing minnows Italy in sub-regional qualifiers on the road to the 2026 World Cup. "The fields of Rome may be a long way from the Gabba, MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground) or our front yard growing up," he wrote. "But I feel like I'm coming home. Grazie."

Former Australia Test opener Joe Burns said Tuesday he will represent Italy in their bid to reach the 2026 T20 World Cup in tribute to his late brother. The 34-year-old, who has Italian heritage, will have 85 on his back for his new country -- the year of his brother's birth and the same number his sibling wore in local Australian cricket.

Former Australia Test opener Joe Burns said Tuesday he will represent Italy in their bid to reach the 2026 T20 World Cup in tribute to his late brother. The 34-year-old, who has Italian heritage, will have 85 on his back for his new country -- the year of his brother's birth and the same number his sibling wore in local Australian cricket. Burns, who lost his brother Dominic in February, played 23 Tests for Australia between 2014 and 2020. "This isn't just a number and this isn't just a jersey," Burns wrote on Instagram, together with a picture of an Italian team top with the number 85 on it. "This is for the people who I know will be looking down proudly from above." Also read: Eng vs Pak: England captain Jos Buttler to miss third T20I for birth of child Detailing his heartbreak at the death of his brother, Burns added: "While a part of my soul feels like it will always be missing, I know this shirt will carry on his spirit and give me strength." Burns now looks set to feature for cricketing minnows Italy in sub-regional qualifiers on the road to the 2026 World Cup. "The fields of Rome may be a long way from the Gabba, MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground) or our front yard growing up," he wrote. "But I feel like I'm coming home. Grazie."

Former Australia Test cricketer Joe Burns to play for Italy | Here's why

Amazon Web Services (AWS) is in talks with the Italian government about considerably expanding its data centre operations in the country, according to four people familiar with the situation. This move is part of AWS's broader goal to expand its cloud computing capabilities all over Europe.<o:p></o:p>

The conversations are ongoing, and the specifics of the investment's magnitude and potential sites have yet to be determined. According to one insider, AWS is considering either expanding its current facility in Milan or building a new site entirely. Both AWS and a representative from Italy's cabinet office's digital transition section declined to comment. The Italian Industry Ministry was not immediately available for comment.<o:p></o:p>

AWS launched its first cloud region in Italy in 2020, with plans to invest €2 billion ($2.175 billion) by 2029. Its Italian clients include well-known firms like luxury manufacturer Ferrari and insurer Assicurazioni Generali.<o:p></o:p>

This potential investment in Italy follows AWS's recent announcement of a €15.7 billion ($17.08 billion) data centre investment in Spain's Aragon region, which represents a significant increase from the €2.5 billion ($2.72 billion) plan announced in 2021. Despite the considerable volume of the Spanish investment, one source claimed that AWS's commitment in Italy might not be as large.<o:p></o:p>

AWS has committed to investing €7.8 billion ($8.49 billion) in Germany by 2040. Furthermore, AWS is constructing infrastructure to serve telecom services, which require significant resources. Earlier this month, it signed its first telecom client, Telefonica Deutschland, with intentions to shift one million users to the AWS cloud.<o:p></o:p>

Last year, AWS announced plans to house data on servers in the European Union to protect the privacy of governmental and regulated business clients. This initiative is part of a larger trend among major firms to recommence cloud computing spending, fuelled by a growing interest in artificial intelligence, which is reviving development in the $270 billion global cloud infrastructure market.<o:p></o:p>

Competitors including Alphabet and Microsoft are also increasing their cloud footprints in Italy. Alphabet invested €1 billion ($1.09 billion) to construct cloud regions for Italy's largest bank, Intesa Sanpaolo, while Microsoft announced the establishment of its first cloud region in Italy as part of a $1.5 billion investment plan revealed in 2020.<o:p></o:p>

As AWS continues to negotiate with Italy, the IT behemoth's actions reflect a deliberate push to strengthen its cloud service offerings across Europe, catering to rising demand driven by technical breakthroughs and the changing needs of enterprise customers.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

Amazon Web Services (AWS) is in talks with the Italian government about considerably expanding its data centre operations in the country, according to four people familiar with the situation.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) is in talks with the Italian government about considerably expanding its data centre operations in the country, according to four people familiar with the situation. This move is part of AWS's broader goal to expand its cloud computing capabilities all over Europe. The conversations are ongoing, and the specifics of the investment's magnitude and potential sites have yet to be determined. According to one insider, AWS is considering either expanding its current facility in Milan or building a new site entirely. Both AWS and a representative from Italy's cabinet office's digital transition section declined to comment. The Italian Industry Ministry was not immediately available for comment. AWS launched its first cloud region in Italy in 2020, with plans to invest €2 billion ($2.175 billion) by 2029. Its Italian clients include well-known firms like luxury manufacturer Ferrari and insurer Assicurazioni Generali. This potential investment in Italy follows AWS's recent announcement of a €15.7 billion ($17.08 billion) data centre investment in Spain's Aragon region, which represents a significant increase from the €2.5 billion ($2.72 billion) plan announced in 2021. Despite the considerable volume of the Spanish investment, one source claimed that AWS's commitment in Italy might not be as large. AWS has committed to investing €7.8 billion ($8.49 billion) in Germany by 2040. Furthermore, AWS is constructing infrastructure to serve telecom services, which require significant resources. Earlier this month, it signed its first telecom client, Telefonica Deutschland, with intentions to shift one million users to the AWS cloud. Last year, AWS announced plans to house data on servers in the European Union to protect the privacy of governmental and regulated business clients. This initiative is part of a larger trend among major firms to recommence cloud computing spending, fuelled by a growing interest in artificial intelligence, which is reviving development in the $270 billion global cloud infrastructure market. Competitors including Alphabet and Microsoft are also increasing their cloud footprints in Italy. Alphabet invested €1 billion ($1.09 billion) to construct cloud regions for Italy's largest bank, Intesa Sanpaolo, while Microsoft announced the establishment of its first cloud region in Italy as part of a $1.5 billion investment plan revealed in 2020. As AWS continues to negotiate with Italy, the IT behemoth's actions reflect a deliberate push to strengthen its cloud service offerings across Europe, catering to rising demand driven by technical breakthroughs and the changing needs of enterprise customers. (With inputs from Reuters)

Amazon in talks with Italy for major AWS data centre expansion

Thousands of visitors have flocked to the tomb of Saint Carlo Acutis, the 15-year-old Italian teenager. Acutis was declared as first 'millennial' saint. Watch in for more details!

Visitors flock to tomb of first 'millennial' saint Carlo Acutis

Italian Senator Giulio Terzi di Sant'Agata has raised alarm over China's use of deepfake technology, espionage via Chinese-made devices, and the leveraging of its cultural institutions for propaganda purposes.

During a seminar titled “Hong Kong: Beijing's expansion to stifle dissent globally,” held at the Italian Senate, last week, the senator gave the example of a Ukrainian student at the University of Pennsylvania who discovered a deep fake video of herself speaking Mandarin, selling products, and propagating anti-Western messages.

Such manipulative tactics, according to Terzi, mirror China’s modus operandi, which people of Hong Kong and Taiwan have long been acquainted with. He highlighted the case of a Taiwanese woman who found footage of the earthquake recorded by her home security camera on a Chinese social media platform, emphasising the infiltration of Chinese-made devices into Taiwan.

Addressing the economic relationship between the European Union (EU) and China, Terzi pointed out that it is not balanced, and lopsided for the union. “The EU and China are the main economic partners with 2.3 billion euros of trade goods per day. However, with an EU trade deficit of almost 400 billion euros, this ratio is critically and structurally unbalanced,” he remarked.

He also emphasised the importance of China honouring its commitments in Hong Kong and welcomed the EU's efforts to engage in dialogue on human rights issues with China. “The EU reiterated its deep concerns about the human rights situation in China, especially violations of systematic human rights in Xinjiang and Tibet, the workforce, the treatment of human rights defenders and women people belonging to minorities, as well as the continued erosion of fundamental freedoms in Hong Kong, where China should honour its previous commitments,” Senator Terzi stated.

Giulio Terzi di Sant'Agata, who has served as Italy's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Ambassador to the United States, expressed concern about the role of Chinese cultural institutions, such as the Confucius Institutes, accusing them of spreading Chinese propaganda and censorship.

“They present to our young people the narrative produced by the Chinese Communist Party, which aims not only to rewrite history but to eradicate and erase different cultures, especially democratic ones, by manipulating maps of China with Taiwan or misrepresenting the reality of Hong Kong, Xinjiang, and Tibet,” he warned.

(With inputs from agencies)

Italian Senator Giulio Terzi di Sant'Agata has raised alarm over China's use of deepfake technology, espionage via Chinese-made devices, and the leveraging of its cultural institutions for propaganda purposes.

Italian Senator Giulio Terzi di Sant'Agata has raised alarm over China's use of deepfake technology, espionage via Chinese-made devices, and the leveraging of its cultural institutions for propaganda purposes. During a seminar titled “Hong Kong: Beijing's expansion to stifle dissent globally,” held at the Italian Senate, last week, the senator gave the example of a Ukrainian student at the University of Pennsylvania who discovered a deep fake video of herself speaking Mandarin, selling products, and propagating anti-Western messages. Such manipulative tactics, according to Terzi, mirror China’s modus operandi, which people of Hong Kong and Taiwan have long been acquainted with. He highlighted the case of a Taiwanese woman who found footage of the earthquake recorded by her home security camera on a Chinese social media platform, emphasising the infiltration of Chinese-made devices into Taiwan. Addressing the economic relationship between the European Union (EU) and China, Terzi pointed out that it is not balanced, and lopsided for the union. “The EU and China are the main economic partners with 2.3 billion euros of trade goods per day. However, with an EU trade deficit of almost 400 billion euros, this ratio is critically and structurally unbalanced,” he remarked. He also emphasised the importance of China honouring its commitments in Hong Kong and welcomed the EU's efforts to engage in dialogue on human rights issues with China. “The EU reiterated its deep concerns about the human rights situation in China, especially violations of systematic human rights in Xinjiang and Tibet, the workforce, the treatment of human rights defenders and women people belonging to minorities, as well as the continued erosion of fundamental freedoms in Hong Kong, where China should honour its previous commitments,” Senator Terzi stated. Giulio Terzi di Sant'Agata, who has served as Italy's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Ambassador to the United States, expressed concern about the role of Chinese cultural institutions, such as the Confucius Institutes, accusing them of spreading Chinese propaganda and censorship. “They present to our young people the narrative produced by the Chinese Communist Party, which aims not only to rewrite history but to eradicate and erase different cultures, especially democratic ones, by manipulating maps of China with Taiwan or misrepresenting the reality of Hong Kong, Xinjiang, and Tibet,” he warned. (With inputs from agencies)

Italian Senator Giulio Terzi raises concerns over China using deepfakes, tech espionage

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Several homes were evacuated as many people slept in their cars or on the streets after 150 tremors, including the biggest for 40 years, hit the volcanic region of Campi Flegrei (Phlegraean Fields), near Naples, Italy overnight. Italian authorities, on Tuesday (May 21) were also checking schools and prisons after some damage was reported to several buildings in the city.

<h2>‘Seismic swarm’</h2>

One 4.4-magnitude quake was registered shortly after 8:00 pm (local time) in Pozzuoli, a densely populated port city, on Monday (May 20) at a depth of 2.5 kilometres, according to the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV).&nbsp;

This was followed by what the institute called a “seismic swarm” of some 150 quakes, including the most powerful one in 40 years.&nbsp;

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According to the local media reports, some cracks were formed in buildings and some chunks of bricks and stones holding the structure together collapsed.&nbsp;

The quakes also prompted many residents to rush out of their homes and onto the streets. Campi Flegrei, which is home to at least 360,000 people, has witnessed more seismic activity in recent years.&nbsp;

Notably, seismic activity is nothing new for Pozzuoli which is located on the Campi Flegrei, Europe’s largest active caldera (the hollow left after an eruption), but a 4.2-magnitude quake last September had already sparked fears among the residents.&nbsp;

<h2>‘I’m scared’</h2>

Local authorities set up tents and organised around 400 temporary bunks for people as many people were scared to go home.&nbsp;

“I’m scared. I opened this morning but there isn’t anyone because people are scared,” Gaetano Maddaluno, 56, a hairdresser in the city of Pozzuoli, told AFP by telephone on Tuesday morning.

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The mayor of Naples, Gaetano Manfredi, urged residents to remain calm on Tuesday and said that the situation is “under control”. He added, “There is currently no risk of eruption.”

Italy’s Civil Protection Department, on Tuesday morning, said 39 families had been evacuated from 13 buildings after the inspection.&nbsp;

Schools had also been closed on Tuesday in Pozzuoli for inspection and across several towns and districts of Naples.

Local authorities also said that 140 inmates of the women’s prison were transferred to other institutions as they were assessing the damage to the jail.&nbsp;

The INGV said it would continue to monitor the caldera, saying that “other seismic events cannot be ruled out.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Several homes were evacuated as many people slept in their cars or on the streets after 150 tremors, including the biggest for 40 years, hit the volcanic region of Campi Flegrei (Phlegraean Fields), near Naples, Italy overnight.

Several homes were evacuated as many people slept in their cars or on the streets after 150 tremors, including the biggest for 40 years, hit the volcanic region of Campi Flegrei (Phlegraean Fields), near Naples, Italy overnight. Italian authorities, on Tuesday (May 21) were also checking schools and prisons after some damage was reported to several buildings in the city. ‘Seismic swarm’ One 4.4-magnitude quake was registered shortly after 8:00 pm (local time) in Pozzuoli, a densely populated port city, on Monday (May 20) at a depth of 2.5 kilometres, according to the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology (INGV). This was followed by what the institute called a “seismic swarm” of some 150 quakes, including the most powerful one in 40 years. Also Read | ‘Reality Check’: Damning report finds big oil firms’ climate plans could increase global warming by 2.4°C According to the local media reports, some cracks were formed in buildings and some chunks of bricks and stones holding the structure together collapsed. The quakes also prompted many residents to rush out of their homes and onto the streets. Campi Flegrei, which is home to at least 360,000 people, has witnessed more seismic activity in recent years. Notably, seismic activity is nothing new for Pozzuoli which is located on the Campi Flegrei, Europe’s largest active caldera (the hollow left after an eruption), but a 4.2-magnitude quake last September had already sparked fears among the residents. ‘I’m scared’ Local authorities set up tents and organised around 400 temporary bunks for people as many people were scared to go home. “I’m scared. I opened this morning but there isn’t anyone because people are scared,” Gaetano Maddaluno, 56, a hairdresser in the city of Pozzuoli, told AFP by telephone on Tuesday morning. Also Read | Animal attack claims life of 70-year-old; Alaska man killed by moose mother while photographing calves The mayor of Naples, Gaetano Manfredi, urged residents to remain calm on Tuesday and said that the situation is “under control”. He added, “There is currently no risk of eruption.” Italy’s Civil Protection Department, on Tuesday morning, said 39 families had been evacuated from 13 buildings after the inspection. Schools had also been closed on Tuesday in Pozzuoli for inspection and across several towns and districts of Naples. Local authorities also said that 140 inmates of the women’s prison were transferred to other institutions as they were assessing the damage to the jail. The INGV said it would continue to monitor the caldera, saying that “other seismic events cannot be ruled out.” (With inputs from agencies)

Italy: Strongest quake in 40 years near supervolcano prompts evacuations

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