Tehran, Dec 17, IRNA -- Italian Food Association proposed here on Tuesday to convert the city of Karaj, near Tehran, to Iran's main center for exporting foodstuff and agricultural produce to European Union (EU) member states.

The proposal was made in a meeting between Tehran Governor General Ali-Akbar Rahmani and the Head of Italian Food Association Lomi Lozo.

Rahmani welcomed the proposal for the establishment of a center in Karaj for export of foodstuff and agricultural products.

He added, "Despite Iran's food industry being in its prime, a proper system is required to materialize the desired production capacity and diversity of agriculture products."

According to him, once an objective system is established, proper grounds for promotion of domestic food processing industries might be prepared.

"Thus, not only the domestic demand will be supplied, but the excess products might be exported as well, he added.

Rahmani referred to Karaj's strategic position and its potentials in having access to the major highways and added "Based on the approval of the cabinet, Tehran Metro line should extend up to 30 kms on from Karaj."

He noted that once the metro project is materialized, the potential for shipment of goods in Tehran province will increase.

"Once Karaj international Payam airport is launched, Iran's presence in world markets, specially those for agricultural products, will further be facilitated," he noted.

According to the representative of the Italian Food Association in Iran, given the high sensitivity of the issue from EU perspective, extensive studies have been underway in various European states over the past six months to examine the prospects of such a project.

In conclusion, he said, "Iran and the city of Karaj were eventually selected by EU experts, in view of the diversity and high quality of its agricultural products and foodstuffs."