Rome, October 26, 2025 – The Europe Today: As part of his official visit to the Italian Republic, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov participated in the Turkmen–Italian Business Forum, which brought together members of the Turkmen delegation, senior Italian officials, and representatives of the private sectors of both nations.
In his keynote address, President Berdimuhamedov emphasized the importance of the forum as a vital platform for strengthening Turkmen–Italian relations through direct business dialogue. He noted that the meeting laid the groundwork for a new stage of cooperation reflecting global geo-economic trends, shared opportunities, and promising prospects for partnership.
The Turkmen leader highlighted that one of the key objectives of Turkmenistan’s “open-door” policy is to provide new incentives for the development of the national economy with a long-term outlook. Central to this strategy, he stressed, is the attraction of foreign investment to Turkmenistan. In this context, President Berdimuhamedov outlined the country’s development priorities and strategic goals, focusing on the creation of an industrial society and the diversification of the national economy.
Energy diversification also remains a top priority, the President said, underscoring Turkmenistan’s commitment to expanding its energy export routes and constructing major pipelines, including those directed westward.
“While implementing our plans for comprehensive economic reform and strengthening international cooperation, we would like Italian businesses to take a significant and respected place in this process. We are ready to create all necessary conditions for their effective operation,” President Berdimuhamedov stated, noting the already strong experience of economic and investment cooperation between Turkmenistan and Italy.
The President also pointed to the transport sector as an area of major opportunity for partnership, particularly in the context of developing the Caspian–Mediterranean corridor connecting Asia and Europe. He emphasized that, due to their geographic positions, both Turkmenistan and Italy are destined to play key roles in this strategic project.
Another promising field for bilateral cooperation identified by President Berdimuhamedov is the textile industry. He expressed Turkmenistan’s readiness to expand long-term partnerships with Italian companies, increase exports of high-quality Turkmen textiles, establish joint ventures for garment production, and access new international markets.
The President further noted Turkmenistan’s ongoing efforts to optimize its banking and financial systems, expressing interest in Italian expertise, particularly in the development of financial institutions, insurance companies, and stock exchanges. In this regard, President Berdimuhamedov reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s willingness to support the establishment of partnerships between the Italian State Export Credit Agency and Turkmen banks.
The Turkmen–Italian Business Forum featured thematic sessions and bilateral meetings between representatives of relevant ministries and institutions of both countries. Several bilateral documents were signed during the event, further solidifying the framework for expanded economic and investment cooperation between Turkmenistan and Italy.
