Iran, Belgium to broaden cooperation in mining sector

Iranian and Belgian officials stressed the need to expand Tehran-Brussels ties in various domains, specially in the mining sector. Speaking at a meeting with Chairman of the Iranian Mines & Mining Industries Development & Renovation (IMIDRO) Mehdi Karbasian on Sunday, Chairman of the Belgian Chamber of Commerce John Stoop voiced Brussels’ willingness to bolster mutual ties, especially in mining sector. He further added that expansion of relations between the two country's chambers of commerce can lead to enhancement of economic ties. Belgian Ambassador to Iran François Del Marmol, who was present in the meeting, said, "We have studied Iran's potentials, including in Kerman province and we are aware of a myriad of areas in this province for the activities of Belgian companies." He also said that Belgium has been continuing to have ties with Iran despite sanctions on Tehran. Following the implementation of Geneva nuclear accord struck by Iran and the Group 5+1 (the five permanent UN Security Council members plus Germany) in November 24, the ground has been paved for more participation of the European countries in the Iranian lucrative market. Several European states have so far sent their trade delegations to Iran to study chances for widening trade ties and exchanges with Tehran, while more EU member states are preparing to send similar delegations to the Islamic Republic. The largest of such delegations comprised of 141 French businessmen and traders who stayed in Tehran for several days in February.