Executive Summary
This report provides an analytical overview of the official visit by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to Uzbekistan, which marks a significant advancement in the strategic partnership between the two nations.
Italy sought to strengthen its geopolitical and economic influence in Central Asia and to build stronger ties with Uzbekistan.
Meloni’s visit highlights Italy’s growing commitment to broader Eurasian partnerships, while Uzbekistan benefits from access to European investment, academic ties, and global recognition.
Key Takeaways
- Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s visit formalised a new stage in Italy–Uzbekistan relations with the signing of multiple strategic cooperation agreements.
- New university partnerships and cultural diplomacy strengthened educational and cultural ties.
- Italy’s engagement with Uzbekistan enhances its geopolitical presence in Central Asia, ahead of the regional Italy–Central Asia summit.
Background Information
On May 28-29, 2025, Prime Minister of Italy Giorgia Meloni paid an official visit to Uzbekistan to expand strategic partnership between the two countries.
During the negotiations, both parties agreed to collaborate on various fields, including investment, raw materials, migration, education and trade.
The naming of a Samarkand street after Rome enhances the historical importance of visiting. President Mirziyoyev emphasised that this symbolic gesture reflects the strong historical and cultural ties, the elevated level of partnership between Uzbekistan and Italy, and the deep friendship and mutual respect shared by both nations.
This official visit aims to build on recent EU–Central Asia summit coordination and expand Italy’s influence in the region.
During Meloni’s visit, the parties signed several important agreements, such as:
- on the promotion and mutual protection of investments;
- on cooperation in the field critical raw materials;
- on cooperation in the field of migration and mobility;
- on cooperation in the fields of sustainable development and environmental protection, as well as cultural heritage;
- in cooperation with the Climate Fund and the Italian Confederation of Agriculture;
- on cooperation in green development with “Sogesid” and “Ansaldo” companies;
- on the partnership between Uzbek universities and the Italian universities of Tuscia, Pisa, and Turin.
These agreements also include significant documents signed between Uzbek authorities and key Italian partners, such as the Italian National Research Council, SIMEST and Danieli companies, and the University of Perugia, showcasing the breadth of this expanding collaboration.
Leaders also visited the exhibition titled “Uzbekistan and Italy: Dialogue of Civilizations”, held at the Congress Center of Samarkand. The exhibition, organized in 9 thematic sections, showcased the rich and longstanding cultural and historical ties between the two countries.
Geopolitical Scenario
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Italy and Uzbekistan, Italy has been one of the key partners of Uzbekistan in the European Union. Rapid expansion has characterized this partnership in recent years.
In 2023, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev paid an official visit to Italy. In November of the same year, President of Italy Sergio Mattarella paid an official visit to Uzbekistan. Furthermore, branches of Turin and Pisa universities, recent increase in the number of Italian tourists visiting Uzbekistan further diversified Italy – Uzbekistan partnership.
The official visit paid by Giorgia Meloni on May 28-29 to Uzbekistan before the “Central Asia – Italy Summit” has started a new chapter in bilateral relations between the two countries.
On May 28, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev welcomed Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni upon her arrival in Samarkand. Then, the leaders visited Registan square and “Eternal City” complex in Samarkand.
Meloni’s official visit to Uzbekistan, following a similar engagement in Kazakhstan, represents a pivotal moment in Italy’s recalibrated approach to Central Asia. Rome’s renewed focus on Central Asia shows an intent to expand its influence through a combination of political, security, economic, and cultural instruments, aligning with broader European Union objectives but shaped by distinctly Italian priorities.
In the Uzbek context, Rome views Tashkent as both a reliable political interlocutor and a critical gateway to regional markets. With its strategic location, industrial aspirations, and growing openness, Uzbekistan is an increasingly attractive partner in the developing Eurasian power balance.
Agreements signed during Meloni’s visit show Italy wants to integrate its companies, especially Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), into Uzbekistan’s industrial reforms, particularly in textiles, green energy, sustainability, and education. Beyond economic cooperation, cultural diplomacy, academic exchanges, and symbolic gestures, like naming a Samarkand street after Rome, strengthen our long-term strategic partnership.
This multidimensional engagement is timely. Geopolitical shifts and the need for diverse trade routes are increasing the Brussels’ focus on Central Asia’s infrastructure and stability. Rome’s pragmatic approach, prioritising results over ideology, could give it an edge in a region wary of outside influence but seeking balanced partnerships.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the official visit of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni played a successful role in expanding Italy – Uzbekistan cooperation. As the most populated country in Central Asia with its strategic geographical location, Uzbekistan is a crucial partner to Italy in the region.
New agreements on educational cooperation would allow more students in Uzbekistan to have access to high-quality education provided by Italian institutions, as higher education enrolment has increased five times in the last decade in Uzbekistan. Agreements on cultural preservation and cultural days promote cultural exchange and mutual understanding between the two nations.
Finally, economic and trade partnerships are also essential as Uzbekistan can allow Italy access to Central Asian markets and increase the number of joint ventures between the countries.
*Cover image: The Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, and the Uzbek President, Shavkat Mirziyoyev (Credits: President of the Republic of Uzbekistan)
Disclaimer – The views and opinions expressed in this report are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of SpecialEurasia.
