Netizens Spark Quite a Buzz on Italian PM Giorgia Meloni Greeting Global Leaders at the G7 Summit with Namaste Gesture

The G7 Summit this year, hosted in the picturesque setting of Borgo Egnazia in Fasano, Apulia, Italy, has already captured global attention. 

However, it wasn't just the critical discussions on international affairs that sparked interest. 

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's unique and respectful greeting caught the eye of netizens worldwide, creating a social media buzz that added a touch of cultural flair to the prestigious event.

In a series of videos that have gone viral on the platform X (formerly known as Twitter), Prime Minister Meloni can be seen greeting global leaders with the traditional Indian gesture of Namaste. 

This greeting, characterized by pressing the palms together with a slight bow, has been warmly received by leaders and viewers alike. 

Among those greeted in this manner were German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

The Namaste gesture, which symbolizes respect and humility, was a noteworthy choice, reflecting Meloni's diplomatic acumen and cultural sensitivity. 

As Italy takes center stage for the G7 Summit from June 13-15, the welcoming gesture set a positive tone for the high-stakes discussions to follow. 

The summit’s agenda includes significant global issues such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Israel-Hamas war, the implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and climate change.

NAMASTE goes Global 🔥 #Melodi #G7 #Italy #Modi pic.twitter.com/sGqgpvXaDJ

— Pritam Biswas (@pritambiswas_18) June 13, 2024

The G7 Summit is a gathering of leaders from seven of the world's most advanced economies: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, and the US. 

This year's summit also sees the participation of the European Commission President, representing the European Union. 

Additionally, Italy has extended its hospitality to a diverse group of nations, inviting leaders from Ukraine, Brazil, Argentina, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Kenya, Algeria, Tunisia, and Mauritania.

Adding to the diplomatic significance of the summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Apulia late Thursday night. 

This visit marks his first international trip after securing a third consecutive term in office, highlighting India's growing influence on the global stage. 

Modi's presence at the summit, where India has been invited as an outreach country, underscores the importance of international collaboration and dialogue.

The internet’s reaction to Meloni's Namaste gesture has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising her for embracing a respectful and inclusive form of greeting. 

Social media platforms have been flooded with comments and shares, with users appreciating the Italian Prime Minister’s nod to Indian culture. 

The gesture not only signifies respect but also promotes a sense of global unity, which is essential at such international forums.

As the G7 Summit progresses, the focus remains on addressing pressing global issues. 

However, Meloni's Namaste moment has provided a memorable start, highlighting the importance of cultural exchange and respect in international diplomacy. 

The viral videos of her greetings have set a warm and inclusive tone for the discussions, reminding us that diplomacy is as much about gestures of goodwill as it is about policy and negotiations.