Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Feb. 26
By Huseyn Hasanov - Trend:
A delegation including representatives of largest Croatian companies visited Turkmen capital of Ashgabat to discuss economic cooperation prospects, according to a message from Turkmen government.
The delegation was headed by former Croatian President Stjepan Mesic.
Turkmen Deputy Prime Minister for Transport and Communication, Satlyk Satlykov was heading the Turkmen side during the meetings of the Turkmen-Croatian intergovernmental economic cooperation commission.
Mesic, who was received by Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, said "European businesses circles, including Croatian ones, attach great importance to building a fruitful partnership with the Turkmen state, which steadily moves towards progress and prosperity".
He said Turkmenistan conducts a well thought out investment policy, providing substantial financial, tax and customs privileges.
Turkmen government said the subjects for attention of the Croation delegation headed by Mesic include cooperation prospects in the transport sector, in particular in the field of improving the marine fleet, as well as, in oil and gas, energy, medical industry, and water management areas.
Mesic reiterated interest in consolidating positions in the local market and active participation in large-scale projects.
Turkmenistan sees Croatia as an important partner in Southeast Europe and the Balkans.
In 2014, the Croatian 'ULJANIK d.d. Brodogradiliste' company will supply Turkmenistan with two car and passenger ferries of 'Ro-Pax' type, in accordance with the order of the Turkmen State Service of Maritime and River Transport.
It was earlier reported that Croatia supports Turkmenistan's efforts to ensure global energy security and development of mechanisms for reliable and stable transit of energy resources to world markets.
Turkmenistan is a key supplier of natural gas in the Caspian Sea region. Until recently gas was delivered to Russia and Iran, but the opportunity emerged in 2009 to export gas to China thanks to the construction of the CNPC pipeline.
Ashgabat is studying projects for natural gas transportation to Europe via the Caspian Sea and Azerbaijan.
Translated by E.A.
Edited by C.N.