| Iran, Afghanistan keen to expand cooperation IRNA
03/05/2005
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Tehran - Minister of Economic Affairs and Finance Safdar Hosseini and Afghan Minister of Economy Anvar al-Haq Ahadi in the first meeting of the joint economic commission on Saturday underlined expansion of collaboration and trade exchanges. In the meeting, Hosseini said that over the past three years, extensive cooperation has been going on between the two countries within the framework of Iran`s participation in Afghanistan`s reconstruction. "We attempt to have a positive role in reinforcing Afghanistan`s economic and cultural infrastructures," he added. He referred to implementation of major projects such as Dogharoun-Herat road, Milak bridge, water and power projects, agricultural and telecommunications projects, construction of medical centers, providing technical as well as professional and cultural training in Afghanistan prove the firm determination of Iran to assist Afghans. Turning to the growing trend of mutual trade exchanges in recent years, he put the annual value of such exchanges at 260 million dollars. "As representatives of government we are committed to prepare the required legal grounds for promoting such moves and eliminating the obstacles. "Necessary steps will be taken in the upcoming meeting in Tehran to sign an investment agreement, according to which both countries will proceed with joint economic activities and investment projects with more confidence," he added. The minister pointed to the implementation of Aryan Bank in Kabul as a first basic step towards giving momentum to bilateral trade and economic relations. Safdar Hosseini referred to the great potentials of both countries and urged that they should be used to the optimum. Besides he noted that it should be taken into view that the relief aid granted to Afghanistan cannot be permanent. "Iranian and Afghan officials should struggle to consolidate further cooperation. We expect the Afghan government to facilitate implementation of various projects by issuing the required licenses to prompt foreign investment in the country," he concluded. Ahadi, for his part, referred to the mutual historical relations and said that over the past three years, Iran has helped Afghanistan by participating in the country`s reconstruction. He referred to the favorable economic and political relations between the two states which contribute to the regional political stability and said that Iran has pledged to allocate 150 million dollars of non-return relief to Afghanistan over five years. The Afghan minister said that in line with its promises, Iran has already implemented several major projects in Afghanistan. The two ministers agreed to sign an agreement on Sunday.
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