Kazakhstan and Italy Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation in Foreign Affairs Meeting

Astana, The Gulf Observer: Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Alibek Kuantyrov, met with Edmondo Cirielli, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Italian Republic, to discuss key issues of bilateral cooperation and the implementation of outcomes from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s official visit to Italy in January 2024. This meeting was reported by the press service of the Kazakh MFA.

During the discussions, the diplomats emphasized the significance of Kazakhstan-Italy relations, noting that Italy is Kazakhstan’s largest trading partner within the European Union. Kuantyrov highlighted the successful completion of the 9th meeting of the Kazakh-Italian Intergovernmental Working Group on Industrial and Economic Cooperation and Exchange, which took place during Cirielli’s recent visit to Kazakhstan.

Both parties also exchanged views on enhancing interactions within the “Central Asia + Italy” dialogue and various international organizations. Cirielli reaffirmed Italy’s commitment to its strategic partnership with Kazakhstan, mentioning a project led by the Italian company “Sogesid,” aimed at the social and environmental revival of the Aral Sea region.

In response, Deputy Minister Kuantyrov welcomed the Italian initiative to develop an Action Plan for establishing knowledge networks between Central Asia and Italy. This plan is expected to facilitate the creation of joint working groups focused on agriculture, healthcare, transport, higher education, water resources, and energy.

The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing to continue a multifaceted dialogue to strengthen the Kazakh-Italian strategic partnership across various sectors.