Slovenia and Azerbaijan should unleash the untapped opportunities not only in trade cooperation but also in services and investments, Minister of Economic Development and Technology Zdravko Počivalšek told Trend news agency.
“Slovenia and Azerbaijan have long and friendly diplomatic relationship, although the economic cooperation is quite modest. Currently it is based on the trade and in the vast majority on the export of goods from Slovenia to Azerbaijan,” the Minister said. As for the new spheres of cooperation, he pointed out those which are green, creative and smart, which is also in line with Slovenia’s slogan for economy and also with the sustainable development. “I am convinced that we can create a lot of green solutions, creative ideas and take smart decisions for mutual benefit and increase the economic cooperation between Slovenia and Azerbaijan,” he said.
Počivalšek went on to add that in Slovenia business has been thriving, which has resulted in strong economic growth in the last few years. “Every company and investor, which has a clear vision of business in Slovenia, sustainable attitude and responsibility is more than welcome in Slovenia. We offer a stimulating and stable business environment,” he said noting the Slovenian government is committed to improve it even further with proactive reforms and is constantly taking measures to create a competitive, transparent, simple and investor-friendly environment.
“Our central geostrategic position at the heart of Europe with direct access to the Adriatic sea and modern infrastructure are important factors of our competitiveness. Our important advantage lies in people who are highly motivated, educated and experienced, have good knowledge of languages and strong regional connections. They can offer tailor made services and customized solutions in combination with innovative products and technologies,” Počivalšek said pointing out that the companies operating in Slovenia are demonstrating that they can compete effectively in the global market while at the same time exploring local advantages.
“We are committed to diversify our exports further and to develop products and services with high added value. In order to accelerate this process, we wish to attract investment with high-tech products and services. Slovenia prides itself also with numerous institutions of innovative environment and research institutions, which are getting high awards on different levels and benefit from our support environment and incentives for R&D,” Počivalšek concluded.