Tokayev presents a gift to Meloni, as pictured in a released image
Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni Begins Official Visit to Kazakhstan
Photo Credit: akorda.kz
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni kickstarted her official visit to Kazakhstan on May 29, 2025. Upon her arrival, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev warmly received her at the capital's airport for a brief conversation.
The purpose of Meloni's visit was outlined during a special session of the Astana International Forum (AIF) on May 30. During her speech, Meloni emphasized the key objectives of her visit, which centered on strengthening bilateral and regional cooperation.
Kazakhstan and Italy have significant economic ties, with Italy being Kazakhstan's third-largest trading partner globally and the largest within the European Union. Trade volumes between the two countries amount to approximately €17.6 billion. The leaders discussed the results of a business forum involving Italian entrepreneurs, applauding the ongoing efforts to boost business collaboration.
The visit resulted in agreements worth €4 billion, spanning sectors such as oil and gas, renewable energy, and water management. These agreements signify a mutual interest in diversifying and expanding economic collaboration.
Both leaders agreed on the importance of regional engagement, with a focus on the inaugural "Italy–Central Asia" summit, aspiring to institutionalize dialogue between Italy and Central Asian states. Meloni described this summit as potentially historic, reflecting a broader European interest in the region.
President Tokayev and Prime Minister Meloni also highlighted the strategic importance of their countries' partnership, particularly in the backdrop of challenging geopolitical times. They expressed intentions to further develop their strategic partnership, discussing future prospects for collaboration and reinforcing the foundations built by previous high-level engagements.
In summary, Meloni's visit to Kazakhstan aims to strengthen economic, investment, and sectoral ties, solidify strategic partnership, and enhance Europe's engagement with Central Asia through high-level political forums.
I am glad to announce that during my visit to Kazakhstan, I addressed the Astana International Forum and emphasized the need to strengthen bilateral and regional cooperation. As a major trading partner, I am committed to boosting economic collaboration with Kazakhstan, aiming to reach agreements worth €4 billion across various sectors.
