Athens:An Azerbaijan-Greece Business Forum took place in Athens, coinciding with the 6th meeting of the Joint Commission on Economic, Industrial and Technological Cooperation between Azerbaijan and Greece.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the event was organized by the Export and Investment Promotion Agency of Azerbaijan (AZPROMO) and Enterprise Greece, attracting over 90 companies from both nations. Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov addressed the forum, emphasizing the reshaping of global economic relations and supply chains, which highlights the significance of diversified energy and transport connectivity.
Minister Shahbazov pointed out that Azerbaijan's leadership under President Ilham Aliyev has created new opportunities for regional cooperation, trade, and investment. Azerbaijan's status as a reliable partner, bolstered by efforts to diversify its economy, enhance energy and transport connectivity, and develop digital infrastructure, has significantly increased its investment appeal. Notably, the non-oil and gas sector contributes over 70% of Azerbaijan's GDP, with over USD 350 billion invested in the country's economy over the past two decades.
The forum underscored Azerbaijan's interest in not just attracting investment but also forming long-term partnerships that bring new technologies and expertise. Promising sectors for Greek businesses include energy, transport and logistics, the digital economy, industry and manufacturing, agriculture, food processing, and tourism. The potential for expanding the existing energy partnership through the Southern Gas Corridor into green energy was also discussed.
The strategic location of Azerbaijan combined with Greece's port and maritime strengths was highlighted as a means to boost East-West connectivity and access to Mediterranean and European markets. Opportunities in the digital economy, artificial intelligence, and modern logistics infrastructure were also considered, with the Alat Free Economic Zone and industrial parks offering attractive prospects for Greek companies.
Greek businesses were encouraged to explore investment opportunities in Azerbaijan, participate in new projects, and establish long-term partnerships. Both sides expressed optimism that the forum would enhance mutual investment and strengthen Azerbaijan-Greece economic ties through concrete projects. The event concluded with B2B meetings among participating companies.