Iran-Belarus seeking to boost trade

Iran is determined to scale up efforts to expand trade with Belarus up to $1 billion.

Khansari is leading an Iranian business delegation that is on a visit to Belarus during July 23-26.

In his words, the delegation of over 20 businesspersons came to Minsk in order to give a fresh impetus to bilateral trade and economic cooperation.

Khansari believes that everything is in place to boost bilateral trade up to $1 billion as was agreed at the highest level.

He is convinced that the visit will result in substantial progress in resolving some sensitive issues.

According to Khansari, the most promising areas of cooperation include mechanical engineering, pharmaceuticals and agriculture.

On Wednesday the Iranian delegation took part in the Belarus-Iran business forum arranged jointly with the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The participants of the forum conferred on business opportunities in the two countries.

 

History

Both countries established diplomatic relations in 1992.

The two countries have enjoyed good relations in recent years reflected in regular high level meetings and various agreements.

In 2008, Belarusian Foreign Minister Sergei Martynov described Iran as an important partner of his country in the region and the world.

 

Trade

In 2008, Belarus-Iran trade made $93.8 million (23.6% up), with Belarus export as high as $83.7 million (25.8% up), import — $10.2 million (8.3% up).

The foreign trade surplus totaled $73.5 million.

Belarus main exports are potash fertilizers, synthetic fibers, synthetic fiber cords, while the main imports are cars, grape, spare parts for automobiles and tractors.

In 2008, Iranian investments in Belarus amounted to $13.1 million, including $9.9 million in direct investments.

In 2010, Iran inaugurated a large copper wire factory and the second phase of Samand car assembly line in Belarus.

Belarus and Iran claim that they can raise the mutual trade turnover up to $1 billion.

Currently the two countries trade value stands at $3.250 billion.

 

Source:

Iran Daily

Wikipedia

Dimotiss News