PARIS: Trade between France and Iran following the implementation of the nuclear deal, otherwise known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, has seen a threefold jump, according to Iran’s Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif.
Addressing a business forum held at Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture’s Tehran headquarters n the presence of his French counterpart Jean-Marc Ayrault, who was accompanied by a 100-member economic delegation, Zarif said bilateral trade in the 11 months of 2016 stood at €1.7 billion.
“The two countries’ potential for economic cooperation is far more than that,” he was quoted as saying by Fars News Agency.
The Iranian foreign minister added that the post-sanctions era has opened up new opportunities for both countries to have effective economic ties.
“With the political developments in the United States and Europe, economic collaboration with other countries is facing numerous challenges. Yet, the Islamic Republic of Iran is all set to become a reliable trade partner for European countries, particularly France, based on mutual interests,” he said.
Zarif underlined the importance of partnership between the private sectors of the two countries.
“Particular attention should be directed toward small- and medium-scale projects as well as major and large-scale projects,” he said.
“Cooperation with France is welcome in different sectors of oil and natural gas, petrochemicals, transportation, mining, science and technology, water and environment since these sectors are Iran’s priorities in the sixth five-year development plan (2016-21).”
The development plans offer a medium-term roadmap designed by the government and Majlis to help achieve sustainable growth, outlining strategies in its budget planning for the next five years.
