Relations between Germany and Italy have traditionally been close. The two countries share similarities in their historical development, in that they both only became nation states in the second half of the 19th century. Their position today at the heart of Europe and their membership of NATO and the EU, as well as their close economic links, provide an excellent basis for their partnership. This year, in 2026, Germany and Italy are celebrating the 75th anniversary of the re establishment of their diplomatic relations.

On 23 January 2026, Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni attended the Intergovernmental Consultations in Rome, during which they signed an Agreement on Enhanced Cooperation on Security, Defence and Resilience and a German-Italian Plan of Action, with a view to further enhancing the bilateral partnership and strategic cooperation at EU and NATO level.

Close links are also maintained by the heads of state. For example, President Mattarella of Italy came to Germany on a state visit from 26 to 29 September 2024. Immediately afterwards Federal President Steinmeier travelled to Italy to attend a memorial ceremony in Marzabotto with him. This event marked the 80th anniversary of the massacre committed in 1944 by members of the SS and the Wehrmacht, who killed over 770 civilians. President Mattarella was also the guest of honour and speaker at the central Day of National Mourning ceremony in the German Bundestag on 16 November 2025.

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 at civil-society level also contribute to close relations.