MEA on Congress’ ‘Meloni jibe’: ‘India shares strong ties with Italy, based on mutual respect and understanding’

MEA on Congress’ ‘Meloni jibe’: India shares strong ties with Italy, based on mutual respect and understanding The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday said India shares strong ties with Italy, based on mutual respect and understanding, in response to Congress MP Rahul Gandhi’s remarks criticising the government’s foreign policy and its ties with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addresses a press conference on the status of the Indus Water Treaty, in New Delhi on Friday. (ANI Video Grab)What happened?Gandhi’s remarks have triggered a political uproar, with several senior BJP leaders condemning what they described as “indecent” language. The Congress MP criticised the Narendra Modi government’s foreign policy, saying the Prime Minister’s responsibility was to protect India’s interests rather than focus on “mere friendships” and public displays of warmth.“You aren't just visiting a friend's house. In this role, the Prime Minister of India doesn't engage in mere friendship. They have no interest in friendship; their job is to protect the country,” Gandhi said.“I don't know where it came from; this idea got into their heads. I don't know who put it there or where it came from, the idea that foreign policy means hugging politicians,” he added.Gandhi then hugged Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit on stage to illustrate his criticism of the Modi government’s diplomatic approach.Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read MoreCongressIndiaItalyItalyGet the latest India News, breaking headlines and real-time updates from across the country. Stay informed about politics, government policies, crime, weather major national developments and Karnataka Bandh LIVE.