In an increasingly interconnected and complex international context, collaboration between public and private entities is a fundamental element for the sustainable development of economic and cultural relations. It is in this direction that the joint work between ACIK and ICE, the Agency for the Promotion Abroad and Internationalization of Italian Companies, fits. A recent conversation with Martino Castellani, director of the ICE Office in Almaty, offered a privileged insight into the activities contributing to consolidating the Italian presence in Kazakhstan. «Our goal,» Castellani explains, «is to create favorable conditions for Italian companies, facilitating access to a market in transformation but full of opportunities.»

The Direct Flight Between Italy and Kazakhstan: From Insight to Reality

Among the most impactful initiatives promoted jointly by ACIK, ICE, and naturally the local Italian Embassy, is the establishment of a direct air connection between Milan and Almaty, in collaboration with the airline Neos. The project was launched in 2021 with a symbolic test flight, welcomed by the Italian Ambassador Pasquale D'Avino, whose contribution was instrumental in securing approval from the Kazakh authorities. Thanks to ICE’s strategic vision and ability to mobilize resources, this flight later became a regular service.

«That first flight,» Castellani recalls, «was a strong signal, not only symbolic but operational. We immediately thought it was essential to ensure continuity for the initiative, so we proposed organizing flights dedicated to Italian companies active in Kazakhstan.»

Particularly significant was the choice to align commercial flights with trade fairs organized by Assocalzaturifici, strengthening the Italy-Kazakhstan fashion axis. Since June 2022, the connection has become regular and stable, with frequencies targeted at both tourism and business.

«We strongly supported adding a midweek flight,» he emphasizes, «precisely to facilitate business missions and commercial contacts.»

Kazakhstan Between Present and Future: A Strategic Perspective

A deep knowledge of the territory, its culture, and economic dynamics characterize  Martino Castellani’s approach. Passionate about history, Castellani describes Kazakhstan as a young, multiethnic country with many potentialities still evolving.

«More than a hundred ethnic groups coexist here, with an ethnic Kazakh majority around 60%. It is a crossroads of peoples, cultures, and geostrategic interests where sensitive dialogue is essential.»

Economically, Kazakhstan is a growing but still complex market to interpret. The presence of an emerging middle class, increasingly attentive to product quality and open to Made in Italy, offers fertile ground for the development of Italian businesses.It is precisely in this context that the roles of ICE and ACIK become even more relevant: they support companies in understanding the local market, building reliable relationships, and enhancing Italian products in a competitive but receptive environment for manufacturing excellence.«Those who come here need to know where to set their feet. Reliable local partners, knowledge of the territory, and cultural adaptability are essential,» Castellani stresses.

Logistics and Geopolitics: Kazakhstan as a Crossroads Between Europe and Asia

Kazakhstan’s strategic geographic position makes it a key player in the new Eurasian logistics. The TITR corridor, considered by many the “new Silk Road”, is one of the major infrastructure bets to diversify exchange channels, especially given current logistical challenges.

«As long as transit through Russia remains complicated, Kazakhstan represents a valid alternative,» observes Castellani. «Along this route, both the European Union and China are investing heavily, as China seeks alternative access routes to Europe.»

Alongside its growing logistical importance, the country continues to maintain a careful and multifaceted diplomatic position. Politically, Kazakhstan adopts a delicate balance: maintaining solid relations with Russia while respecting sanctions and developing constructive collaborations with the West. A measured position that reflects the country’s desire to maintain stability and dialogue with all global actors.

Culture, Tourism, and Identity: A Country to Discover

Beyond the economic aspect, ICE and ACIK recognize the importance of cultural and naturalistic tourism, a growing sector in the country. Kazakhstan offers breathtaking landscapes, from mountains to steppes, lakes to desert areas, and a rich history tied to nomadic traditions, craftsmanship, music, and folklore. Martino Castellani, who has lived in Almaty for several years, recounts:

«It’s a people with a deep artistic vein linked to a long tradition of exchange and craftsmanship, whose nomadic roots are still reflected in daily life. Kazakhs often know their origins up to the seventh generation, a sign of a living bond with community and historical memory.»

Almaty, the former capital, is now a vibrant cultural hub, with museums such as the Kasteev Museum, largely dedicated to Soviet art, and the National Museum, which tells the deep roots of the Kazakh people. But the cultural offering extends far beyond museums, traversing territory and traditions: from eagle hunting to mountain glamping, from theatrical performances in traditional costumes to oral storytelling by bards, Kazakhstan expresses a strong and proud identity that new generations are rediscovering with enthusiasm.

The collaboration between ACIK and ICE, led locally by Martino Castellani, is not limited to mere commercial promotion: it is a true operational, cultural, and strategic bridge between Italy and Kazakhstan. In a country in continuous transformation, this synergy represents a virtuous model of economic diplomacy, territorial rooting, and long-term vision. An increasingly structured, prepared, and recognized Italian presence: this is the common goal that ICE and ACIK are building day by day.