On September 5, the ministers of foreign affairs of Kazakhstan and Italy discussed the development of politics, trade, economics, and investment dialogues with the potential participation of Italian high-tech companies, QazMonitor reports citing the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Murat Nurtleu, met with Antonio Tajani, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Italy, and reiterated Kazakhstan's view of Italy as a reliable strategic partner in Europe.
The interlocutors noted a 54% increase in mutual trade turnover, which reached $14.9 billion in 2022, as well as the successful implementation of several major investment projects in Kazakhstan.
Furthermore, the parties highlighted the significant contribution of launching bi-weekly direct flights between Almaty and Milan last year to the development of trade and economic relations between the two countries. In this regard, Nurtleu expressed his hope for Italy's support in facilitating a visa regime for Kazakh citizens in the European Union.
Following the meeting, the parties signed a joint statement emphasizing cooperation in priority sectors of economy, science, and culture, including manufacturing, digitalization, water management, and interpersonal and academic exchanges.
Italy is Kazakhstan's third-largest trade partner overall and the largest trade partner in Europe. The key areas of economic cooperation include energy, exploration, natural resource production, construction, infrastructure, transport, communications, agriculture, scientific and technological activities, and consulting services.
Between 2005 and 2022, the volume of direct investments into Kazakhstan from Italy amounted to $7.3 billion. Currently, about 270 companies with Italian capital are registered in Kazakhstan.