OREANDA-NEWS. Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran, H.E. Shri Gholamreza Ansari called on Minister of Steel and Mines, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar at here today. Shri Ansari conveyed keen interest of Government of Iran in strengthening the trade ties between the two countries.

Shri Tomar highlighted the initiatives taken by the present government under the leadership of the Prime Minister, in furthering bilateral and multilateral relations with different countries. In the area of Steel and Mines, a beginning has been made and all efforts will be made to take it forward in a concrete manner, he added. Shri Tomar remarked that such interpersonal meetings go a long way in comprehending each other’s strengths and requirements, and also improving the understanding of issues of mutual interest. This can facilitate planning for and executing projects that benefit from the complementary strengths of the two nations, he quipped. The Minister elaborated on areas like railway network, technology tie-ups and port development, where the two countries can work together.

Shri Ansari apprised the Minister that an umbrella agreement has been signed between the two countries today, for rupee credit line. He further added, “This initiative will help improving business relations and Indian economy since it is for products manufactured in India. Iran’s understanding is that the new government is energetic and interested in improving business with neighbouring countries. There can be lot of areas where India can help Iran and vice versa, thus complementing each other. Iran’s strengths lie in Energy, petrochemical, fertilizers and India is strong in steel, rail road, port development. Iran can serve as a gateway for Indian goods to Central Asia, Afghanistan and Russia. We want Indian companies in Steel, Mines and other sectors to come and invest in Iran.”

Shri Ansari requested the Union Minister for planning a visit to Iran and also exchanging high-level delegations. In initial stages of business development, such visits and delegati ons boost the business confidence of investors on both sides, he added.