Erdogan Hosts Meloni in Istanbul to Bolster Turkey-Italy Ties

 

Erdogan Hosts Meloni in Istanbul to Bolster Turkey-Italy Ties

Istanbul, August 1, 2025 – Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomed Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to Istanbul on Friday for a high-profile summit aimed at deepening bilateral relations between Turkey and Italy. The meeting, held at the historic Dolmabahçe Palace, underscored the growing partnership between the two nations as they navigate complex regional and global challenges.

The leaders engaged in wide-ranging discussions, focusing on strengthening economic cooperation, enhancing trade ties, and addressing shared concerns in energy security and regional stability. Turkey and Italy, both strategically positioned in the Mediterranean, share a mutual interest in fostering stability in the region, particularly in light of ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Erdogan emphasized the importance of expanding trade, noting that bilateral trade volume between Turkey and Italy reached $25 billion in 2024, with ambitions to surpass $30 billion in the coming years. Key sectors discussed included defense, renewable energy, and infrastructure development. Meloni, in turn, highlighted Italy’s commitment to collaborating with Turkey on energy diversification, particularly in natural gas and renewable energy projects, as Europe seeks to reduce reliance on traditional suppliers.

The talks also touched on migration, a critical issue for both nations. Italy, a primary entry point for migrants crossing the Mediterranean, and Turkey, a key transit country, explored ways to strengthen cooperation on managing migration flows humanely and effectively. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to addressing the root causes of irregular migration through development initiatives in source countries.

On the security front, the leaders addressed shared concerns about terrorism and instability in the Middle East and North Africa. They also discussed Turkey’s role as a NATO ally and Italy’s contributions to regional security frameworks, pledging to deepen defense cooperation.

The meeting comes at a time when Turkey is seeking to bolster its ties with European Union nations, with Italy serving as a key partner in facilitating dialogue. Meloni’s visit is seen as a step toward reinforcing Turkey’s strategic alignment with Europe while maintaining its independent foreign policy stance.

Following their discussions, Erdogan and Meloni held a joint press conference, where they expressed optimism about the future of Turkey-Italy relations. “Our nations share a deep history and a vibrant partnership,” Erdogan said. “Today’s talks have laid the foundation for even closer collaboration.” Meloni echoed this sentiment, stating, “Italy and Turkey are united by common goals, and we are committed to working together for a prosperous and secure Mediterranean.”

The visit included a cultural component, with Meloni touring Istanbul’s historic sites, including the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, accompanied by Turkish officials. The Italian delegation is also expected to meet with Turkish business leaders to explore investment opportunities before departing.

This summit marks a significant moment in Turkey-Italy relations, signaling both nations’ intent to deepen their partnership amid a rapidly evolving global landscape.