Kazakhstan is capable of increasing its exports to Italy by
$1 billion across 100 commodity items, including products from metallurgy,
mechanical engineering, petrochemicals, and other sectors. President
Kassym-Jomart Tokayev made this statement during the first Central Asia–Italy
Summit, highlighting the strengthening of regional cooperation. Additionally,
Central Asia is steadily solidifying its position as a key player in
international relations. The C5+1 format is set to create a strong foundation
for mutually beneficial partnerships between the regional states and Italy.
President Tokayev also outlined the most promising areas of cooperation.
«The primary priority is to deepen trade and economic ties.
Tariff conflicts among the world's major economic powers carry serious
consequences for all countries. In this context, it is crucial for us not only
to maintain existing trade and economic relations but also to make efforts to
foster them. We believe special attention should be given to launching joint
projects and expanding the product range, particularly by focusing on non-raw
material products with high added value,» the President said.
Central Asian countries have strong potential to increase
their agricultural exports to Europe. Trade between the region’s nations could
also expand significantly through the establishment of trade houses and
logistics centers. In particular, President Tokayev proposed opening an Italian
trade house in Almaty. Energy is another key area for partnership.
«Our country is one of the top three largest oil exporters
to the European Union. Last year, Kazakh oil shipments to the Italian market
exceeded 30 million tonnes, marking a 27% increase compared to the previous
year. We are ready to increase current volumes if necessary. At the same time,
it is already clear that the future lies in alternative energy. A steady
transition to a low-carbon economy is one of Kazakhstan’s priorities. We
appreciate our Italian partners for implementing joint projects to build wind
and solar power plants in several regions across the country,» he added.
At the summit, Kazakhstan put forward an initiative to
establish a regional research center that will consolidate data on rare earth
metal deposits across Central Asia. President Tokayev also emphasized the
importance of technology transfer and the localization of Italian production in
the region. Another key priority he identified is strengthening
transcontinental connectivity through the Trans-Caspian International Transport
Route. The Head of State further proposed expanding cooperation in education and
culture, and in 2026, holding a series of events under the auspices of the Year
of Cultural Rapprochement between Central Asia and Italy.
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