Relations between Germany and Italy have traditionally been close. Since Germany and Italy both only became nation-states in the second half of the 19th century, the two countries share experiences in their historical development. Their position today at the heart of Europe and their membership of NATO and of the EU, as well as their close economic links, provide a very good basis for their relations. The number of German cultural institutions in Italy is unique. The Villa Vigoni Association on Lake Como is a forum specifically created to promote bilateral exchange. The diverse contacts between the two civil societies contribute to the close relations as well.

Government ministers and parliamentarians from the two countries meet regularly for an in-depth exchange of views and also often meet at international conferences and European Council sessions. Close contacts are also maintained between the Heads of State, most recently in the form of the visit by Federal President Steinmeier to Sicily and Venice in September 2023.

On 22 November 2023, Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni signed the German-Italian action plan during intergovernmental consultations in Berlin with the aim of taking the bilateral partnership to a new level and strengthening strategic cooperation, both bilaterally and at EU level.