Iran-Russia-Tabriz
Head of East Azarbaijan Commerce Organization Sadeq Najafi held talks with head of Russian Federation Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Mines Recep Safarev on issues of mutual interest on Tuesday.

Najafi put the annual Iran-Russia trade transactions at dlrs 3.2 billion, noting that the figure is not acceptable given the two countries' potentials.

He also called for the exchange of economic and trade delegations between the two countries.

Safarev, for his part, stated that the volume of Russia' trade with Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and Egypt is higher than with Iran, calling for increasing the current level in near future.

Safarev also invited the member of Tabriz Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Mines to Russia.

Safarev, heading a delegation, also visited Ardebil province and inked an economic cooperation agreement on Monday.

As per the agreement, both sides emphasized the exchange of economic and trade delegations and seeking opportunities for joint economic activities in the two countries.

On the sidelines of a joint meeting with the heads of chambers of commerce of Ardebil province, Safarev said Moscow opposes imposing any kind of sanctions against Iran, because such sanctions would damage mutual trade and economic ties.

"Iran is an independent and influential country in the Middle East region and has plenty of common interests with Russia," he said.

Safarev said, "Iran, because of its influence in the region, can pave the way for expansion of cooperation between Russia and the regional Arab countries."