Italy and Turkey's Bilateral Meeting to Strengthen Regional Stability, Trade, and Defense
February 20, 2025 – In a time of global instability, where challenges are many and the degree of unpredictability is extremely high, Italy and Turkey have been able to maximize their cooperative potential, successfully reducing risky situations. Meanwhile, the Rome-Ankara axis continues to strengthen, driven by mutual pragmatism and a shared strategic vision.
Italy and Turkey: A New Bilateral Era
Bilateral relations between Italy and Turkey have entered a new era, where positive economic data and business complementarities play a significant role. Recently, trade volume has reached $32 billion, surpassing the previously set target of $30 billion. Over the last three years, bilateral commercial relations have grown by a third, and industrial contacts have intensified, leading to the establishment of important partnerships. A concrete example is Baykar's acquisition of Piaggio Aerospace, which has elevated bilateral relations to a new level. Moreover, the ongoing dialogue between Baykar and the Italian defense company Leonardo, along with renewed interest in integrating Italian and Turkish defense systems, underscores the importance of this partnership.
Building Regional and International Bridges
On a bilateral level, the two countries can work together as natural partners, but more importantly, they play a crucial role in building regional and international bridges. Italy and Turkey are both members of the Euro-Mediterranean region, facing similar challenges. Their mutual understanding and historical connections significantly contribute to their cooperation, helping them address common crises and opportunities.
As NATO members, both countries are aware of global threats and the need to address them effectively based on a shared set of values and vision.
The Importance of the European Framework
Being integrated into the European framework is extremely important for both countries. Economically, the two nations are fully aligned, with Turkey currently being the EU's fifth-largest trading partner, exporting goods worth €111 billion.
The Rome-Ankara Axis
Beyond bilateral cooperation, the Italy-Turkey partnership contributes to broader regional integration. In Africa, the potential for cooperation is vast and can be effectively exploited. Italy, in line with its "Mattei Plan for Africa," is investing in infrastructure development projects with the ultimate goal of managing migration issues.
Specifically, in the Black Sea and the Middle East, Turkey’s mediation efforts align with Italy’s goals for regional stability. Turkey’s leadership in ceasefire negotiations in Gaza, its diplomatic efforts in the Russia-Ukraine war, and its commitment to Syria’s political transition and stability are areas where Italian and Turkish interests converge.
