IRI urges enhanced political, economic ties with Tunisia

IRI’s Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi on Monday called for enhanced economic, political and cultural cooperation between Iran and Tunisia.

Speaking to reporters upon his arrival in Tunis, Salehi said ‘During the current visit we are determined to prepare the grounds for expansion of mutual cooperation in various fields, tourism and industry in particular.’

“I do advise Iranian nationals to visit this Islamic and revolutionary country,” he said.

This the first visit by a high ranking Iranian delegation to that country after Tunisian revolution, Salehi said.

After its revolution, Tunisia has attained a very remarkable status in the Arab world, he said.

Relations between Iran and Tunisia have experienced many ups and downs throughout history, he said.

Volume of current trade exchange between the two countries stands at about 300 million dollars, he said and called for expansion of economic cooperation to a much higher level, he said.

The two sides’ economic officials are to review ways of increasing the volume of trade exchange between the two countries, he said.

There are many untapped economic potentials which should be explored, the Iranian foreign minister said.

Iran is ready to put its valuable experiences and knowledge in various fields at the disposal of Tunisia, he said.

The visit is taking place at the invitation of his Tunisian counterpart Rafik Abdessalem.

Salehi is scheduled to explore ways of expanding political and economic ties between the two countries with Tunisian officials during his stay in the country.

He will also discuss regional and international issues with senior Tunisian officials.