Islamic Republic News Agency, Iran
May 31 2005

Iran gives priority to expansion of ties with neighboring states

Tabriz, East Azarbaijan prov, May 31, IRNA
Iran-Ties-Armenia

Iran’s Ambassador to Yerevan Ali-Reza Haqiqian on Tuesday referred to
expansion of multifaceted relations with the neighboring countries in
line with the policy of promoting regional peace, stability, balance,
security and welfare in the region as one of the basic principles
of Iran.

Speaking at inaugural ceremony of a conference held by Iranian and
Armenian tradesmen, he added that given the historical commonalties
and peaceful communication between the two nations, the two countries
should further bolster cooperation.

“The economic potentials of the two states and the interests associated
with the privilege of being neighbors justify making optimum use of
the favorable conditions.

He hoped to witness the achievements of Iranian and Armenian tradesmen
after the necessary grounds are prepared by the officials of both
countries for such cooperation.

Stressing that bolstering mutual ties is one of the objectives of
the high-ranking officials of the two states, the Iranian diplomat
said, “Establishment of Aras Free Trade and Industrial Zone, joint
construction of Nowzar bridge and Armenia’s access to the remarkable
facilities of East Azarbaijan province will serve as a proper
infrastructure to strengthen collaboration between the two states.

He reiterated the need to hold similar conferences in Iran and Armenia
and noted that looking for new fields of cooperation and struggling
to use the available potentials requires close assistance of the
officials in charge.

The two-day conference is held at the premises of Tabriz Chamber of
Commerce, Industries and Mines.

During the seminar, the attending tradesmen and industrialist will
discuss trade cooperation between the two countries.

From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress