Iran seeks big share in Afghanistans market ISLAMABAD, June 3 (KUNA)- A visiting Iranian official has sought the Kabul governments cooperation to give Iranian merchants and industrialists a bigger share in Afghanistan's market. "Iran is ready to invest in Afghanistan's economic and industrial fields if Afghanistan lifts obstacles in the way of business and provides the required facilities and guarantees, the Administrative and Financial Affairs Deputy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Morteza Bank said in a meeting with the Afghan Foreign Minister Dr. Abdullah, an official from Kabul, Afghanistan told KUNA Tuesday.
The official said, the Iranian deputy Foreign Minister in a meeting also referred to the ongoing Islamic Republic of Iran Exclusive Trade Fair, which opened here on May 27, calling it "an appropriate opportunity for promoting trade and business relations between the two countries," Over 140 firms are participating in the fair, which is to run until June 12; official said adding, Bank has asked the Afghan transitional government to facilitate greater entry of Iranian firms and manufacturers by allowing them to participate in tenders announced by President Karzai 's cabinet. Referring to the long history of broad and strategic relations between the two countries, official said, the Iranian deputy foreign minister expressed delight over the restoration of peace and stability in Afghanistan after over two decades of foreign and civil wars. Bank has also announced Iran's willingness to take a greater share in the reconstruction process in Afghanistan. The Afghan transitional government's Foreign Minister said he is optimistic Iran's exclusive trade and industrial fair would go long way in boosting business and trade ties between the two neighboring countries.(end) amn.kf KUNA 031402 Jun 03NNNN