Turkey is interested in developing a number of investment projects in Moldova's energy sector. The statement was made by Turkish President Abdullah Gül at a meeting in Ankara with a Moldovan official delegation headed by Prime Minister Vlad Filat. The Moldovan Premier welcomed the initiative, stressing that Moldova needs to diversify its energy sources. According to a press release from the Moldovan Government, Vlad Filat said that Turkey is one of Moldova's most important trade partners, noting that in January-August 2012 it ranked 6th in terms of bilateral trade. The Prime Minister also noted that Moldova is home to more than 232 companies with Turkish capital that have developed successful businesses in such areas as the food&beverages industry, mobile telephony, health care, and the hospitality industry. Vlad Filat thanked the Turkish authorities for the scholarships offered to students in Moldova and for the assistance in repatriating Moldovan citizens fleeing the civil war in Syria.