Iran, Australia resolved to boost trade in non-sanctioned sectors
During a meeting between the head of the Iran Chamber of Commerce and the Australian ambassador to Tehran on Sunday, both sides emphasized the expansion of cooperation in the trade of non-sanctioned goods and exploraction of alternative financial methods.
Samad Hassanzadeh, head of the Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines, and Agriculture, stated that while sanctions have hindered the development of trade relations between Iran and Australia, there are ways to overcome these challenges, according to otaghiranonline.ir.
In a meeting with Ian McConville, Australia’s ambassador to Iran, Hassanzadeh noted that alternative financial mechanisms could be utilized, provided both sides reach an agreement. He added that the Australian Embassy could play a significant role in facilitating this process.
Hassanzadeh stressed the importance of continuous communication between the Australian ambassador, trade counselors, and the Iran Chamber of Commerce.
He highlighted Iran’s strong potential for trade collaboration in various sectors, including food products, construction materials, medical supplies and dried fruits, which are competitive in the Australian market due to their high quality and affordability.
He further emphasized Iran’s capabilities in high-standard production industries such as casting, automotive parts, textile machinery, industrial equipment and engineering services, including the construction of power plants, dams, bridges, refineries and petrochemical facilities.
Hassanzadeh also pointed to Iran’s potential in tourism, suggesting visits to cities like Shiraz, Isfahan, Tabriz, Mashhad, Kerman, and Yazd to explore opportunities for bilateral cooperation. He expressed hope that the Australian Embassy would take steps to facilitate trade relations between the two countries.
Banking-related bans as major obstacle to ties
Ian McConville, Australia’s ambassador to Iran, expressed his country’s interest in deepening relations and cooperation, particularly through the Iran Chamber of Commerce and joint chambers.
He pointed to his visits to various Iranian cities, including Shiraz, Yazd, Isfahan and Kashan, and noted that Iranian carpets have always left a strong impression.
McConville stated that he is eager to meet with heads of chambers of commerce across Iran. He acknowledged the current reasonable level of bilateral trade relations between the two countries but stressed the need to increase cooperation in non-sanctioned sectors.
He highlighted that significant quantities of Australian meat are exported to Iran, while non-sanctioned Iranian goods are imported into Australia, and these trade ties should be further developed.
The ambassador termed banking-related sanctions as a major challenge to expanding trade relations, noting that these restrictions hinder cooperation. He expressed hope that ongoing communication and dialogue could help overcome these limitations.
In conclusion, Hassanzadeh reiterated that no country can progress under isolation and restriction and emphasized that Iranian officials are committed to fostering international relations with all countries under the principles of peace and security, and are working to establish stronger global ties.
He called on other nations to stand against discrimination and unreasonable pressures and to contribute to greater international cooperation.