IRNA – Iranian Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Farhad Dejpasand highlighted the significant share of trade and industry in Iran-China relations and said there are no elements restricting mutual relations.

Speaking in a meeting to explore Iran-China trade and investment opportunities here on Monday, he noted that the political situation prevailing mutual ties was apt for enhancement of economic and trade interactions.

He also said that the two countries were trying to make the best use of their social and cultural assets to promote peace and protect mutual interests in addition to economic potential and opportunities.

He referred to oil and gas industries, refineries and petrochemical industry, auto manufacturers, environment-friendly industries, such infrastructures as roads, railway and transportation as well as the 80-million-strong market as the advantages of making investments in the country for the Chinese businessmen and entrepreneurs.

The minister further welcomed the Chinese firms' investments in the sewage and drainage networks in 100 Iranian cities and sweetening of drinking water in some of other cities.

Elsewhere in his remarks, he welcomed the Chinese President's initiative of 'One Belt, One Road' and said Iran had remarkable potential to contribute into the plan.

Pointing out that China was at the top of the list of Iran's economic partners, he said the value of mutual trade in 2018 stood at dlrs 35 billion, with about dlrs 21 billion going for Iran's exports.

He went on to stress the need for both countries to confront the US wicked behaviors in abandoning international treaties.

Dejpasand arrived here on Monday to take part in the 17th meeting of Iran-China joint economic commission slated for March 18-19.
Special committees at Iran-China joint economic commission are planned to discuss ways to widen bilateral relations in the areas of investment, trade, banking, border, communications, environment, agriculture, food and health security, science, culture and tourism.

During his two-day stay in Beijing, Dejpasand and his high-ranking economic delegation are scheduled to meet with Chinese trade businesspersons.

Dejpasand is also to hold talks with his Chinese counterpart, and the two sides will sign several documents on cooperation at the end of the commission meeting.

The 16teh Iran-China joint economic commission meeting was held in Tehran.