Azerbaijan successfully endured consequences of global economic crisis - Minister

Azerbaijan has become a serious player in the region, the Minister of Finance Samir Sharifov said, speaking at the opening of the Azerbaijani business forum held in Baku on Friday in the framework of 15th annual meeting of the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB).

After welcoming the participants on behalf of the government of Azerbaijan, the minister noted that the country attaches great importance to the forum seeing it as a good platform for the presentation of economic successes of Azerbaijan, the investment climate established in the country and opportunities for economic cooperation.

"Azerbaijan's economic growth over the past 10 years has no parallel in the world. The country has successfully endured the consequences of the global economic crisis. More than 80 per cent of the national economy comes from the private sector. Along with the energy industry, impressive results are found in the non-oil sector of Azerbaijan's economy," said Sharif.

According to him, these achievements were made possible through the far-sighted policy of President Ilham Aliyev.

"This policy is aimed at the renovation of infrastructure and investment in Azerbaijan as well as improving the socio-economic situation of the country. Economic achievements of the country are reflected in the rankings of the leading international agencies. Azerbaijan ranks first among the CIS countries in terms of economic growth," the minister said.

Alongside, Sharifov said the country faces new challenges.

"First of all, we are talking about the diversification of the national economy. President Ilham Aliyev has set a goal of doubling the GDP in the next 10 years. Moreover, the head of state has adopted a strategy of 'Azerbaijan 2020: A Vision into the Future' aimed at developing the economy, improving transport and logistics infrastructure, development of information technology and other purposes. I believe the forum is a good opportunity for discussion and exchange of experience in these areas," the minister said.


/Trend/