OREANDA-NEWS. January 22, 2010. The Iranian commerce minister said, while considering the two countries' capacities, mutual trade should increase.

Mehdi Ghazanfari spoke at the 10th Iran-Uzbekistan joint economic cooperation commission, Tehran Times reported citing Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB). He said the two countries traders and businesspersons are keen to expand ties, adding that very good agreements to broaden relations were inked in the 9th joint commission.

The Iranian official said the exchange of trade delegations, holding specialized exhibitions, joint investments and an increase in technical and engineering services have helped develop business between the two countries.

He went on to say that he was positive that by merging Iran's unique position, its advantages in oil and gas, industries, agriculture, petrochemicals and the export of technical and engineering services' alongside Uzbekistan's capacity in industry and technical know-how the two sides could achieve great advancements.

He cited implementing former agreements, reaching a trade balance, increasing the number of items included in preferred tariffs, preparing grounds for money transfer and easing the process for issuance of one-year visas for traders as ways to enhance business.

In the same meeting, the deputy prime minister of Uzbekistan who is also that country's minister of foreign economic relations, trade and investment said that the expansion of cooperation with Tehran is one of its government's priorities.

Elyor Ganiev added that currently over 130 Iranian firms were operating in his country, further adding that Iran is Uzbekistan's largest trade partner in the region.