|
Tehran, Nov 28, IRNA -- Iran and Venezuela here Sunday stressed the
importance of establishing peace and stability in international
arena and opposing unilateralism as among the goals shared by the
two countries.
photo: ISNA
President Mohammad Khatami in a meeting with his visiting
Venezuelan counterpart Hugo Chavez, said Iran always supports
the Venezuelan government and nation and called for expansion of
bilateral relations in all fields.
He pointed to Tehran-Caracas cooperation within the United
Nations, the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC),
G-77, G-15 and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and added the two
sides will make further efforts to boost such cooperation.
He praised the aims of the Venezuelan government and nation to
reach an appropriate position in today's world, saying the Venezuelan
government has chosen democratic ways to attain such goals.
photo: ISNA
Khatami urged the two countries to reduce dependence on oil
revenues and stated, "Oil is a national wealth which should be
preserved for future generations. We should meet our current needs
through tax revenues and boosting activities of the private sector."
He highlighted the need for removal of bureaucratic obstacles to
attract investment and attain industrial development and noted that
Iran has managed to attract both foreign investment and technical
know-how in recent years.
photo: ISNA
Iran achieved great success in part manufacturing, access to auto
manufacturing technology and establishment of independent giant
companies in oil and gas sectors, said the president, adding the
country enjoys the capability to put its experience at the disposal
of Venezuela in legislation, attraction of foreign investment and
establishment of free trade and industrial zones.
Chavez, for his part, said the Iranian nation and government has
always supported the Venezuelan government and nation at hard times
and welcomed expansion of friendly ties with Iran.
On promotion of agricultural sector in his country he welcomed
the active presence of Tabriz tractor manufacturing company in
Venezuela and said there are suitable grounds for expansion of
agro-products and industry in his country.
Highlighting the recent amendments made by the Venezuelan
parliament to economic rules and regulations, he said "We welcome
Iran's assistance that enjoys ample natural resources and skilled
work forces."
He called for utilization of Iran's experiences in various
fields such as banking, free trade zones as well as media.
A number of high ranking political and economic figures from two
sides were present in the meeting.
| 
