A new stage in Italy-Central Asia relations: Meloni calls for strategic partnership

Last week, Astana hosted a strategic dialogue between the Central Asian countries and Italy. Italian Prime Minister Giorgi Meloni, who made a delayed visit due to the death of the Pope, actively participated not only in the Astana summit, but also in the international forum that took place before it.

At the first-ever Central Asia-Italy summit, Meloni met with the leaders of five republics in the region. He met with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in Samarkand and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Astana. The choice of Astana as the venue for the summit further demonstrated the importance of the region as a political center.

Meloni: “Relations with Europe must reach a new qualitative level”

“It’s time to think beyond borders,” the Italian Prime Minister said in his speech. That is, new directions and approaches are needed in relations with Europe. According to him, Italy is one of the most active investors in Central Asia within the framework of the European Union, and sees this region not only as an economic, but also as a political and environmental partner.

Meloni emphasized that one of the main priorities of bilateral cooperation will be the energy sector. He noted the need to strengthen opportunities in this area, improve the investment climate and expand joint projects in the field of green energy. He also drew attention to the importance of cooperation within the framework of the Climate Fund in combating climate change and environmental problems.

Forum: geopolitical considerations and the European Union's perspective

One of the prominent politicians who spoke at the international forum held within the framework of the summit was former Italian Foreign Minister and former EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Federica Mogherini. He emphasized that Italy's approach to Central Asia coincides with that of the European Union.

“We want to develop a comprehensive, strategic and geopolitical partnership in this region, not just trade, investment and culture. Central Asia needs to maintain a balance between the world’s leading countries, and leaning in one direction can be dangerous for them,” said Mogherini.

Opening a new page

The agreements reached during the summit and the expressed political will clearly demonstrate that Central Asia-Italy relations have entered a new phase. Italy is trying to increase its influence in the region not only economically, but also politically and culturally. Through Meloni’s speech, the European Union showed that it is taking a serious look not only at Western, but also at Central Eurasia.

The Zamin.uz editorial team believes that this summit will be an important stage in regional stability and shaping a new geopolitical dynamic in Eurasia. For the Central Asian countries, this is also a potential opportunity and a new direction for a balanced foreign policy.