KERMAN - Brotherhood and neighborhood between Iran and Afghanistan necessitate more exchanges in political, economic and other fields between the two countries, Afghan Deputy Chief Executive Officer said Thursday.
Addressing a session on ways to expand bilateral economic cooperation, Haji Mohammad Mohaqiq regretted that Iran-Afghanistan bilateral relations are not optimal. However, he noted that the situation has been caused by regional developments and the international sanctions against Iran.
He stressed the need to introduce Afghan products in Iranian markets adding that the opening of Chahbahar port, in southern Iran, can provide the opportunity for further economic cooperation between the two neighboring countries.
Mohaqiq added that negotiations between Tehran and Kabul will be held soon on six major programs in the fields of commerce, industries and mines, railways, drugs, water and refugees as part of a comprehensive plan.
Stating that there are plenty of investment opportunities in Afghanistan, Mohaqiq said that many countries have invested there but that Iran has a vacant place in this field.
He described terrorism as the enemy of all mankind and said that all countries have the right to fight terrorism in Afghanistan and take steps toward development of economic relations.
The Afghan official stressed the need for creating an economic belt after restoration of the Silk Road and expressed hope that his country would become a connecting point for economic exchanges and transit of goods.
He pointed to the problem of Afghan refugees in Iran and said he expected provision of job opportunities for Afghan immigrants in Iran.
The meeting was attended also by the Afghanistan ambassador to Iran, and a group of provincial entrepreneurs and officials. (IRNA)