During a joint press conference in Istanbul, Turkish Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacır and Italian Minister Adolfo Urso underscored the long-standing commercial relationship between the two Mediterranean powerhouses. They pointed to robust trade figures, with Türkiye’s exports to Italy reaching $13 billion last year and overall bilateral trade exceeding $30 billion, as evidence of their deep economic connection. Both leaders emphasized that their collaboration extends beyond traditional sectors to include innovative high-tech fields.
A New Era in High-Tech Cooperation
A standout moment in this renewed partnership is the acquisition of Italian aviation company Piaggio Aerospace by Turkish drone giant Baykar. Described by Urso as a historic step, this move is expected to accelerate drone production and foster further technological collaboration in emerging fields. The Italian minister highlighted his personal involvement in the process and the positive reception from factory employees, indicating a bright future for joint high-tech ventures between the two nations.
Capitalizing on Technological Advancements
Kacır noted that Türkiye’s rapid technological and entrepreneurial growth over the past two decades, along with its young, dynamic workforce and strategic geographic location, makes it a magnet for Italian investment. The discussions in Istanbul included plans to further develop high-tech sectors such as defense, aviation, and space, positioning the two countries as leading centers for innovation in the Mediterranean region. Both ministers expressed optimism about leveraging their shared expertise to boost competitiveness on the global stage.
Looking Ahead to Future Cooperation
With intergovernmental meetings slated for April, both Turkey and Italy are gearing up for even deeper collaboration, not only within their borders but also in third countries where they share common interests. Urso emphasized that the strong political rapport between President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni paves the way for these intensive efforts.
