Bahador Aminian Jazi, the Iranian Ambassador to Afghanistan, said that Afghanistan is an exceptional opportunity for Iran in economic issues. He added: “So far, no fundamental step has been taken in the country to use its potentials. Therefore establishment of the relevant infrastructure to make the most of this capacity is necessary.”
Iranian Ambassador to Afghanistan mentioned that Afghanistan’s membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO), its access to countries such as India and Pakistan, the tariff-free exports to most countries and the availability of good sources of titanium, azure and iron ore, high quality crops, energy and human resources are the great potentials of Afghanistan for Iran, to name a few.
Aminian noted: “By establishing Industrial Centers near the two country’s borders, we can take actions to expand exports through Afghanistan to neighbor countries.” He emphasized on the importance of private sector entry into the market and announced the official opening of Iran’s railroad project at the Afghan border in a near future.
Iranian Ambassador continued: “Development of trade relations between two countries is our priority and by connecting this railway, which stretches to a depth of 35 km, this relations will enter a new phase.
Masoud Golshirazi, President of Esfahan Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA), explained that considering the bad economic conditions triggered by the sanctions, strengthening ties with the neighboring countries is of a great importance. He continued: “Afghanistan’s mines represent a gem that hasn’t been properly invested on and requires the creation of export center offices. In order for making a significant success, he said, benefiting from the State Protocols is critical to implement large businesses.
President of ECCIMA referred to the supplying of raw materials and machinery for Iranian producers through Afghanistan as another opportunity for the country and called for the Sovereign Investment Guarantees.
Farhad Janighorban, Special Assistant to ECCIMA President, declared that Afghan Market should have a higher priority in comparison to Iraq market and added: “Focusing on the border regions of two countries, especially Chabahar, is of great importance in doing business with Afghanistan.”
He expressed the interests of Afghans businessmen to engage with Iranian business counterparts and concluded that the government’s support for the presence of Iranian products in Afghan Market is needed.