Stronger trade ties sought with Arab neighbors, says business figure
Strengthening economic and trade relations between Iran and the Arab countries in the region is of great importance, a senior Iranian business official said on Sunday, as the Shiraz International Expo opened in southern Iran.
The Expo, which runs through October 14 at the Fars International Permanent Fairground, aims “to showcase Iran’s and Fars Province’s export capacities to neighboring and Persian Gulf countries,” said Payam Baqeri, the vice president of Iran’s Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture at the opening ceremony.
“The event highlights Iran’s long-standing economic, historical, and cultural ties with the regional countries,” Baqeri added, IRNA reported.
He said exports serve as “a display of the Islamic Republic’s capabilities” to regional partners attending the exhibition.
Bagheri stressed that Iran has always prioritized good neighborliness and constructive engagement with regional states. “Given our deep historical background, we expect Iran’s trade and international relations — particularly with Arab countries — to reach a higher level,” he said.
The businessman called for greater utilization of shared capacities and cooperation to promote regional sustainable development. “Iran is rich in investment opportunities and possesses considerable potential in various fields,” Bagheri noted, adding that Arab countries have consistently been among Iran’s key trading partners.
However, he said, both sides remain capable of expanding their economic cooperation even further. Achieving this goal requires “forums and events where businesspeople can get acquainted, learn about each other’s needs and capabilities, and develop specific strategies for deeper cooperation.”
Bagheri called for improved transport, logistics, and transit infrastructure between the countries.
Joint production for global value chains
Bagheri also underscored the importance of “joint production and investment” to integrate into global value chains, describing them as key pillars of expanding international cooperation.
“These strategies can help elevate the economic standing of Iran and its neighbors on the global stage,” he said, highlighting Fars Province’s significant export potential in agriculture, horticultural products, food industries, oil, gas, petrochemicals, carpets, handicrafts, and tourism.
He expressed hope that the Shiraz Expo would mark “the beginning of a new chapter in economic and cultural cooperation between Iran and regional countries.”