The conference, Economy and Culture in the Republic of Turkey: the pedagogical model and Italy's role, focused on the economic and cultural relationships between Italy and Turkey. It featured lectures throughout the day presented by nine scholars from various universities in both countries. 

 

Ambassador Akil lauded the "successful" cooperative effort made between the Sapienza and Bahçeşehir universities and spoke of the importance of such partnerships. He stated that the relations between the two countries have existed for a long time, and that with the Turkish economy rapidly growing, joint ventures between Italian and Turkish companies are helping each other expand. He also outlined the outstanding amount of tourism between each of the countries and stated that he expects the number of tourists to rise. 

 

Ambassador Akil's remarks were followed by a short speech by Rector of the Sapienza University, Luigi Frati. Rector Frati also spoke of the importance of this partnership and exclaimed that he "loves Turkish culture." He expressed that this event will be "fruitful for us, for our relations." He continued to explain that this relationship is so important that the Sapienza University has even designated a special chairman for the department, Fabio Grassi.

 

Signor Grassi then expressed his happiness with the "very important relationship" with BAU and attributed the conference's success to those who love "achieving and accomplishing." He continued as the moderator for the morning lectures, which focused on the historical perceptions and influences of the two countries.

 

The conference took a midday break, and continued in the afternoon with a tour of the BAU Center of Eurasian Studies in Rome. The conference concluded with a lecture on the cooperative opportunities between Turkey and Italy.