Iran-Bulgaria-Commission
The 16th meeting of Iran-Bulgaria Joint Economic Commission kicked off here on Monday in presence of the two countries' transport ministers.

During the four-day session, held to further promote bilateral economic relations between the two states, mutual cooperation in the areas of oil and gas, transportation, tourism, information technology (IT), industries, agriculture, trade, and commerce will be discussed by the two sides.

Addressing this morning session, Iran's Minister of Roads and Transportation, Mohammad Rahmati, said the Islamic Republic's foreign policy has been established on the basis of mutual respect and expansion of ties with other countries.

He stressed that Bulgaria enjoys a special place in Iran's foreign policy.

Rahmati expressed hope that the two countries' Joint Economic Commission sessions would have fruitful outcome and would lead to a boost in bilateral economic relations.

Referring to the two countries' historic relations, he called for further promotion of Tehran-Sofia ties in the areas of air, land and rail transportation.

The Iranian minister further called for holding the session annually.

For his part, the Bulgarian Minister of Transportation, Peter Moutafchiev, said the session will help the two countries achieve their joint objectives.

He added that the two countries' bilateral trade relations have been dramatically increased since 2000.

Bulgaria's membership in the European Union has prepared grounds for further expansion of Tehran-Sofia relations, he added.

The Bulgarian minister reiterated that his country considers Iran as a major Asian partner.