Iran looks to foster comprehensive partnership with Vietnam

During the meeting, Larijani mentioned the close friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and Iran over the last 45 years, saying that as the two countries' celebration of the 45th anniversary of their diplomatic ties (1973-2018) this year will open up new opportunities for the two sides to further expand the bilateral relations.The Parliament of Iran has recently approved a master plan for the country's development over the next five years which encourages foreign investment in the fields of oil and gas, petrochemistry, liquefied petroleum gas and agriculture, said the top Iranian legislator.Iran wants to cooperate with Vietnam in these areas, alongside information technology, cyber-security and environmental protection, he noted, adding that Iran welcomes and will create all possible conditions for Vietnamese enterprises to do business in his country.To raise two-way trade to 2 billion USD, he suggested the two countries set up a direct air route and simplify visa procedures to boost tourism. He also urged better coordination between the two sides in finance and banking which is vital to increase bilateral trade.PM Phuc, for his part, appreciated the proposals by his Iranian guest, saying they are closely aligned with the focus of the two nations' cooperation.Welcoming Larijani to attend the Vietnam - Iran business forum during this visit, Phuc said he has instructed relevant agencies to invite to the event potential Vietnamese companies that are interested in developing partnerships with peers from Iran.He asked Iran to back Vietnam's candidacy for the UN Security Council from 2020-2021 and suggested the two sides increase exchanges of high-level delegations and closely work together to host celebrations of the 45th anniversary of the Vietnam-Iran diplomatic ties, thus promoting relations in all areas.Vietnam encourages Iranian firms to trade and invest in the production of agricultural products, an advantage of Vietnam, and welcomes Iran's cooperation in sea transportation, port construction and support industries, the PM said.He asked the central banks of Vietnam and Iran to together work out ways to remove barriers in payment between the two sides, thus facilitating trade activiites.The Iranian leader agreed with PM Phuc, noting that he will direct relevant bodies to soon translate the ideas into reality for the benefits of both sides as well as for peace and prosperity in the region and the world at large.Larijani arrived in Hanoi on April 15 for an official visit at the invitation of National Assembly Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan. He will be in the country until April 18.

(Source: VNA)