by MK
Officials and delegates from across Europe and beyond gathered on Tuesday, 17 March, in Trieste for a dual summit combining the 30th anniversary of the Central European Initiative with a forum on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, a meeting aimed at strengthening trade links between Europe, the Middle East and Asia.
The meetings brought together 10 foreign ministers, including Italy’s deputy prime minister and foreign minister, Antonio Tajani, along with state secretaries, parliamentary delegations from eight countries, and representatives of academia, business and civil society.
Held at the Generali Convention Center in the Porto Vecchio district, the morning session focused on the evolution of regional cooperation in central, eastern and southeastern Europe. The Central European Initiative, founded in 1989, includes 17 member states; Belarus has been suspended since 2022.
In his remarks, Mr. Tajani reiterated Italy’s support for the enlargement of the European Union, stating that countries in the Western Balkans should be admitted before Ukraine. He framed the process as a step-by-step approach to integration within the bloc.
Regional officials also highlighted the broader role of the initiative. Massimiliano Fedriga, governor of Friuli Venezia Giulia, said the organization, originally conceived to support European integration, could now serve as a platform for cooperation in addressing wider global challenges. He pointed to economic development and international connectivity as areas of growing importance.
The afternoon session turned to the IMEC project, a proposed infrastructure and trade corridor linking the Mediterranean with India through the Middle East. Participants described Trieste as a potential hub connecting European markets with both neighboring Balkan countries and more distant Asian economies.
Discussions at the summit also touched on broader geopolitical issues, including tensions involving Iran and questions about the role of NATO allies. Responding to questions about possible Italian involvement in a conflict, Mr. Tajani said direct participation was not anticipated, while noting the importance of protecting international trade routes.
Mr. Fedriga, speaking separately, said instability in the Middle East could have consequences for global commerce and European economies. He emphasized the need to consider longer-term security implications, while also acknowledging the importance of diplomatic efforts.
As the meetings concluded, Mr. Tajani underscored Italy’s commitment to advancing the IMEC corridor despite geopolitical uncertainties. He noted that Italy has appointed a special envoy for the project and said the initiative would move forward with Trieste positioned as both a starting and end point of the route — a role that highlights the city’s growing strategic importance in linking Europe with global markets.
