President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov delivered a speech at the First ‘Central Asia-Italy’ Summit in Astana on 30 May. This is reported by the state news agency TDH.

In his address, the Head of State expressed gratitude to the President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev for the organisation of the forum, as well as to the Chairman of the Council of Ministers of Italy Giorgia Meloni for the initiative to hold the summit.

Serdar Berdimuhamedov said Turkmenistan is interested in expanding cooperation with Italy and Central Asian countries and is ready to contribute to the development of partnership. The President of Turkmenistan noted that sustainable development of the region requires active cooperation in the spheres of security, economy, transport, water resources and ecology.

The Head of State paid special attention to security issues, stressing the importance of the UN system and Turkmenistan's initiative to proclaim 2025 the International Year of Peace and Trust. Serdar Berdimuhamedov also invited the leaders of the countries to the International Forum of Peace and Trust to be held in Ashgabat in December.

On the economic agenda, the President of Turkmenistan highlighted energy, including gas supplies and hydrogen energy, digitalisation and ‘green’ technologies.

The Head of State also noted the importance of transport links with Europe, support for environmental initiatives, strengthening of cultural and educational ties, including cooperation in archaeology and interest in Italian language and culture.

In conclusion, Serdar Berdimuhamedov reaffirmed Turkmenistan's commitment to deepening dialogue with Italy in bilateral and regional formats.