Joint Statement of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Prime-Minister of Italy

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, during his official visit to Italy, met with the Prime Minister of the Italian Republic. According to Akorda, the parties declared the following at the conclusion of the meeting:

1. Acknowledging the provisions of the Strategic Partnership Agreement between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Italian Republic dated November 5, 2009, we express satisfaction with the trustful and regular dialogue between the two countries at all levels. Kazakhstan stands as Italy’s primary economic partner in Central Asia, while Italy remains Kazakhstan’s largest trading partner in the European Union and one of the leading investors in the Kazakhstani economy.
2. Emphasizing that over the course of more than thirty years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, Kazakhstan and Italy have transformed their ties into a strong partnership based on mutual trust, shared values, and effective cooperation.
3. Noting the high dynamics of Kazakhstani-Italian cooperation, we aspire to continue diversifying and deepening relations in all areas of mutual interest in the spirit of strategic partnership.
4. In the economic sphere, building upon the Joint Statement of Deputy Prime Ministers and Foreign Ministers of Kazakhstan and Italy signed on September 5, 2023, in Astana, we highlight the considerable potential for further development of trade and investment ties. Key areas of cooperation include energy, exploration and extraction of natural resources, «green» economy, construction, infrastructure, transportation and logistics, agriculture, scientific and technological activities, and consulting services. Emphasizing the importance of enhancing mutually beneficial cooperation between the two states, we welcome the establishment of the Business Council.
5. Stressing the significance of negotiations on the Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Government of the Italian Republic on the encouragement and mutual protection of investments, which will contribute to improving the investment climate and further developing mutually beneficial trade and economic cooperation between Kazakhstan and Italy.
6. Additionally, we underscore the importance of expanding collaboration in the field of higher education between leading Kazakhstani and Italian universities, particularly those specializing in science and technology.
7. We express our intention to enhance cooperation in the realm of culture. We welcome the official opening of the Italian Cultural Center in Almaty on November 30, 2023 – the first in Central Asia – which marks another step towards bringing our nations closer together and developing cultural ties.
8. Both parties acknowledge that Kazakhstan’s participation in the 60th International Biennale of Contemporary Art in Venice will contribute to the popularization of Kazakhstani culture and art, both in Italy and abroad.
9. We declare the readiness of both states to continue close interaction within the Agreement on Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation between the Republic of Kazakhstan, on one side, and the European Union and its member states, on the other side, signed in Astana on December 21, 2015. In this regard, we welcome the convening of the first «Central Asia – European Union» Summit held on October 27, 2022, in Astana.
10. With satisfaction, we note the launch of significant initiatives in the field of transportation and communication in Central Asia, particularly those related to the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route. We express support for the implementation of the European Union’s «Global Gateway» project.

1. We affirm the commitment of both countries to establish a strong and prospective foundation for cooperation between the European Union and Central Asia, as well as to strengthen regional dialogue in Central Asia, which is key to prosperity, stability, and sustainable development. We note the importance of holding the «CA+Italy» meeting in Rome in 2024 and in Kazakhstan in 2025.
2. The Prime Minister of the Italian Republic highly values the role of Consultative Meetings of the Heads of State of Central Asia in further deepening cooperation, enhancing peace, fostering an atmosphere of friendship, trust, and good neighborliness in the Central Asian region, and increasing their significance on the international stage.
3. In the pursuit of advancing the climate agenda, the Prime Minister of the Italian Republic highly appreciates the Republic of Kazakhstan’s relevant initiatives. This includes acknowledging the proposal to establish a Project Office for Central Asian Countries on Environmental Protection and Climate Change in Almaty and the suggestion to organize a Regional Climate Summit under the auspices of the United Nations in Kazakhstan in 2026.
4. We advocate for the strengthening of interaction between the two countries based on the principle of mutual respect. We confirm full respect for the UN Charter as a common basis for coexistence and cooperation, as well as a mutual commitment to contribute to global and regional peace, security, and stability. We continue to facilitate dialogue on international migration issues, including within the framework of the Almaty Process, and aim to deepen bilateral cooperation within multilateral forums such as the United Nations.
5. In the context of the relevance of the climate agenda, we reaffirm a firm commitment to combat climate change and welcome the confirmation of the goal to limit global warming to 1.5°C at the World Climate Conference (COP28) held in Dubai in 2023.
6. The President of the Republic of Kazakhstan wishes the Prime Minister of the Italian Republic success in presiding over the country in the «Group of Seven.»
7. The President of the Republic of Kazakhstan invites the Prime Minister of the Italian Republic to visit Kazakhstan in the near future.

Adopted in Rome on January 18, 2024.