President Tokayev’s Official Visit to Italy Strengthens Bilateral Relations

Rome, The Gulf Observer: In the commencement of his official visit to Italy, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with Italian President Sergio Mattarella in a landmark diplomatic encounter, according to the reports Akorda.

Acknowledging the warm hospitality extended during his inaugural visit to Italy as the President of Kazakhstan, Tokayev expressed gratitude to President Mattarella, emphasizing the positive and mutually beneficial relations between Kazakhstan and Italy, characterizing Italy as a reliable partner within the European Union.

President Tokayev underscored Italy’s significance as one of Kazakhstan’s principal trade partners in the EU, with mutual trade currently standing at 14.5 billion US dollars. Optimistically anticipating growth, President Tokayev articulated the shared goal of reaching 20 billion US dollars in the foreseeable future. Recognizing Italy’s role as a key investor in Kazakhstan, he highlighted the presence of around 300 Italian companies, including the flagship company Eni, operating in Kazakhstan.

Emphasizing the need to create favorable conditions for further bilateral cooperation, President Tokayev advocated for an additional impetus in various spheres, including culture and tourism. He expressed confidence in the productivity of Kazakhstan-Italy collaboration, citing the multifaceted potential for development.

President Tokayev elaborated on the most attractive and promising sectors for foreign investors, particularly emphasizing green energy. The discussion extended to international cooperation, with a focus on Kazakhstan’s engagement within the UN and OSCE.

Both leaders emphasized the importance of strengthening the global system of international relations and security, rooted in respect for the UN Charter. Prospects for developing cooperation between Kazakhstan and Central Asia with the EU were explored, particularly highlighting opportunities in transport and logistics, including the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route.

President Tokayev congratulated President Mattarella on Italy assuming the chairmanship of the Group of Seven (G7) and expressed his best wishes for the success of the G7 agenda. President Mattarella, acknowledging Italy’s interest in Kazakhstan’s political and social modernization, thanked Tokayev for his visit to Rome. He expressed confidence that the outcomes of the talks would provide additional impetus to bilateral economic, political, cultural, and humanitarian ties.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with President Tokayev extending an invitation to President Mattarella to visit Kazakhstan, an invitation that was graciously accepted. The subsequent working dinner further facilitated discussions on enhancing the collaborative efforts between the two nations.