President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to speak at the Turkmen-Italian Business Forum and noted the growing interest of Italian businesses in Turkmenistan. This was reported by the news website Asmannews.

The Head of State said that the purpose of the meeting was to give new impetus to bilateral relations and bring the partnership to a modern level.

The President of Turkmenistan emphasised that good inter-state relations have been established between the countries and positive experience of cooperation with Italian companies has been accumulated. According to Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the reforms being carried out in Turkmenistan, rich natural resources and an ‘open door’ policy create favourable conditions for foreign investment.

The President of Turkmenistan outlined the key strategic directions for the country's development: industrialisation, diversification of the economy and export routes, creation of a ‘green’ economy, development of transport and logistics infrastructure, and processing of hydrocarbon raw materials.

The Head of State noted the significant presence of Italian business in Turkmenistan, including cooperation with ‘Eni’ and a number of other companies. At the same time, the President of Turkmenistan stressed the need to expand cooperation, especially in energy, transport, gas processing and renewable energy.

Serdar Berdimuhamedov paid special attention to projects in the field of electric power and invited Italy to participate in the construction of power plants and the development of ‘green’ technologies. The President of Turkmenistan expressed confidence that the goals of Turkmenistan and Italy in the field of energy security coincide.

Among the promising areas, the Head of State mentioned transport cooperation, including the creation of the Caspian-Mediterranean corridor and the modernisation of railways. He also mentioned the development of the textile industry, where Italian companies' equipment is actively used, and proposed expanding joint production of finished products.

The President of Turkmenistan proposed considering the creation of a Turkmen-Italian business council to coordinate cooperation and noted the importance of business exchanges, exhibitions and joint projects.

Serdar Berdimuhamedov said that Turkmenistan is reforming its banking sector and is interested in Italy's experience, including cooperation with the ‘SACE’ agency.

In conclusion, the Head of State emphasised that Turkmenistan considers Italy a priority partner and is open to long-term, mutually beneficial cooperation. The President of Turkmenistan wished the forum participants successful and fruitful work.