Erdogan delivers strong messages in Rome: Türkiye–Italy strategic partnership deepens
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (L) and Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni shake hands during a press conference as part of Türkiye's President's visit at the Villa Doria Pamphili in Rome on April 29, 2025. (AFP Photo)
Following the fourth Türkiye–Italy Intergovernmental Summit in Rome, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan answered journalists’ questions on plane, delivered strong messages on bilateral cooperation, defense industry, the situation in the Middle East, and Türkiye’s global vision.
The strategic partnership between Türkiye and Italy took a significant leap forward during President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s official visit to Rome, where he met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for the fourth Türkiye–Italy Intergovernmental Summit.
A wide range of issues including trade, defense, migration, energy, Africa, and the Middle East were discussed, with both sides showing strong commitment to deepen cooperation.
11 agreements signed, trade target set at $40B
A total of 11 bilateral agreements were signed during the summit. Erdogan emphasized the growing economic ties between the two nations:
Our trade volume with Italy currently stands at $30 billion. We aim to reach $40 billion as soon as possible. The potential is there, and we are determined to build on it.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
He also highlighted joint efforts in areas such as renewable energy, digital transformation, and green technologies.
Cooperation in Africa
Erdogan praised Italy’s recent anti-colonial rhetoric regarding Africa and stated that Türkiye’s approach to the continent aligns closely with Rome’s.
We reject any colonial mindset. Türkiye believes in an eye-level partnership in Africa — a relationship based on mutual respect and shared benefit. Italy’s new vision is promising, and we are ready to join forces.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
Strategic defense partnership: Baykar–Leonardo agreement expands
Defense industry cooperation featured prominently in the talks. A new cooperation agreement between Türkiye’s Baykar and Italy’s Leonardo was signed, aiming to expand beyond drone technologies into missile systems, air defense, and possibly space.
This is more than a defense agreement; it’s a long-term strategic partnership. It will strengthen our industries and our geopolitical stance alike.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
Message to PKK: ‘The end is near’
Erdogan also responded to recent claims that the PKK may be abandoning armed struggle. He was unequivocal:
The terrorist organization is facing a dead end. Its efforts to rebrand or reposition itself will not succeed. Türkiye’s position is clear: peace will not come through negotiations with terrorists, but through national unity and security.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
Firm words on Syria: ‘No to federation fantasies’
Erdogan dismissed plans by certain groups in Syria’s north to establish a federal structure, calling them unrealistic:
These are mere fantasies. The territorial integrity of Syria must be preserved. Fragmenting the country would endanger the entire region.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
He also condemned recent Israeli airstrikes on Syrian territory:
Israel’s actions risk dragging the entire Middle East into deeper chaos. We must prevent this escalation and protect regional stability.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
Gaza update: ‘No cease-fire yet, but aid will continue’
Regarding the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Erdogan said Türkiye remains committed to providing aid despite the lack of progress on a cease-fire.
The bloodshed continues, unfortunately. But we will not stop our humanitarian efforts. We’re in continuous diplomatic contact and trying to raise international pressure on Israel.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
Ukraine–Russia cease-fire initiative
Erdogan also commented on the proposed temporary ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8 to May 10, expressing cautious optimism:
This could be a valuable opportunity for lasting peace. Türkiye is ready to facilitate meaningful dialogue between the parties.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
A Broader Strategic Vision
President Erdogan’s Rome visit emphasizes Türkiye’s evolving foreign policy—one that combines economic pragmatism with humanitarian diplomacy and regional activism. His messages signal a desire to not only build stronger ties with European allies like Italy but also to act as a stabilizing force in regions from Africa to the Middle East.
