BAKU, Azerbaijan, September
25. Three potential areas for Azerbaijan's future
competitiveness include the development of the Middle Corridor and
logistics, the digital economy, and the energy sector, Valerio De
Molli, CEO and Managing Partner of TEHA Group (The European House –
Ambrosetti), Italy’s leading private think tank, said at the 2nd
Azerbaijan International Investment Forum held in Baku today,
Trend's
correspondent reports from the event.


"One of these is the Middle Corridor and logistics, given the
country's advantageous geographical location, as well as the
stability and momentum we observe here. The second is an economy
based on technology—primarily digital technology. And the third is
energy—a sector that cannot be overlooked as a foundation,
including for Europe's energy security," he noted.


De Molli also highlighted Azerbaijan's geographical and
logistical significance.


"Regarding trade and logistics links between China's maritime
borders and Europe: the route via the Suez Canal takes 30 days, the
route around the Cape takes 40 days, whereas the Trans-Caspian
route takes 12 days," he explained.


According to him, traffic along the Middle Corridor is expanding
significantly.


Turning to the digital sphere, De Molli noted the presence of
Tier II and Tier III data centers in Azerbaijan, high-speed
connectivity, and the adoption of the region's first artificial
intelligence strategy.


He also highlighted the extensive fiber-optic network coverage
and the value-added generated in the information and communication
technology (ICT) sector, which he noted amounts to 3.8 billion
manat ($2.2 billion).


"This is a highly successful and dynamic area," De Molli also
said.







Regarding energy, he pointed to Azerbaijan's significant export
volumes and its partnership with Europe.


"This is also a matter of energy security for Europe," he said,
adding that Azerbaijan also possesses significant potential in the
renewable energy sector.


In conclusion, De Molli highlighted the role of the Azerbaijan
International Investment Forum as a platform for exchanging ideas
and opportunities, establishing business connections, and signing
memoranda of understanding and agreements.


The Second Azerbaijan International Investment Forum is taking
place in Baku.


The two-day forum is organized by the Ministry of Economy and
the Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Agency
(AZPROMO)—which operates under the Ministry—in strategic
partnership with The European House – Ambrosetti.


Dedicated to the theme "Restoring Trust in a Fragmented World:
The South Caucasus as an Anchor of Global Connectivity and
Investment Stability," this year's forum brings together leading
global investors, state and government officials, international
financial institutions, and business leaders.