'Italia crucial hub for energy flows to Europe'
Interview with Levan Davitashvili, new CEO of Italiana Petroli (Ip)
Operational continuity, industrial opportunities, development of the Azerbaijan-Italy route. These are the issues that the new CEO of Italiana Petroli (Ip) Levan Davitashvili highlights in his first interview in this capacity. Appointed on 13 May, after the Azerbaijani group Socar finalised the acquisition of 99.82% of Ip from Api Holding, Davitashvili was formerly Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Economy of Georgia and, among other things, led the Green Energy Corridor effort between the Caucasus and the EU.
What is Socar's strategy in Italia?
Ours is an industrial outlook approach to create long-term value. It aims to ensure continuity and operational stability, to support the evolution of the sector towards more efficient and sustainable solutions, and to enhance Ip's strengths: people, skills, network and strong territorial presence. Our aim is to combine these strengths with the industrial capabilities, technological skills and experience of Socar, an international company operating along the entire value chain, from upstream resources to refining and retail distribution. Socar is already a long-standing partner for Italia through its participation in Tap (the pipeline that brings Azeri gas to Puglia, ed). The acquisition of Ip further consolidates this relationship and allows us to extend our presence in further areas, such as refining, logistics, distribution and mobility.
Why is Italia a key market for you?
Italia occupies a prominent strategic position in the broader European and Mediterranean energy landscape. Its geographical position naturally connects the Caspian basin, continental Europe and the Mediterranean, making it a crucial hub for energy flows, infrastructure and connectivity in the area. In a context where energy security is increasingly dependent on diversification of supply sources, this position represents strategic value. Socar's activities and long-term investments contribute to strengthening existing energy cooperation and supporting the area's resilience and flexibility. Italia is already Azerbaijan's main trading partner, a significant energy supplier in both oil and natural gas: cooperation between the two countries has developed over many years on the basis of mutual trust, reliability and shared economic interests.
