Italy’s Ambassador to India, Antonio Bartoli, has underscored India’s growing importance on the global stage, describing the country as a “stable and wise actor” in international affairs. Speaking on Tuesday, the envoy emphasized the urgent need for dialogue to end the ongoing conflict in West Asia, noting that India and Italy share similar priorities in calling for de-escalation and diplomatic engagement.

Bartoli said both nations are encouraging the parties involved in the conflict to pursue diplomatic dialogue and bring the war to an end as soon as possible. He added that governments are also focused on the safety of their citizens in the wider region. According to the ambassador, thousands of Italian nationals are currently in Gulf countries and other nearby regions, while about 1,500 Italian tourists were recently stranded in the Maldives due to the situation.

The envoy also stressed that a prolonged conflict could disrupt global energy markets and push oil prices significantly higher. Stability in energy supplies, he said, is crucial for both producers and consumers, adding that countries are working to avoid crude oil prices rising above $100 per barrel. Global markets saw some relief after U.S. President Donald Trump suggested the conflict in the Middle East could end soon, though he also warned Iran against interfering with global shipping through the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

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Highlighting India’s rising geopolitical role, Bartoli said the country is gaining influence not only because of its large economy and population but also due to its balanced diplomatic approach. He noted that India remains a reliable partner for global value chains and an important voice in geopolitical dialogue. The ambassador referred to a recent phone conversation between India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, during which the two leaders discussed the ongoing crisis in West Asia.

Bartoli also warned that conflicts in the region have far-reaching economic consequences, including higher transportation costs, increased insurance premiums, and rising prices for goods and services. Such instability, he said, harms global trade and economic growth, reinforcing the need for a swift resolution to the crisis. He expressed optimism that stronger economic cooperation between Europe and India, including a potential free trade agreement, could boost trade and investment.

The ambassador made the remarks while highlighting Italy’s participation as the partner country at the 40th edition of AAHAR – The International Food and Hospitality Fair, being held at Bharat Mandapam from March 10 to 14. Organized by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries and the India Trade Promotion Organisation, the event is considered one of Asia’s leading food and hospitality exhibitions, with Italy expressing strong interest in collaborating with India in food production, technology, and global market expansion.

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