Rouhani: Iran ready to meet Uzbekistan's energy needs
EghtesadOnline: Iran's President Hassan Rouhani said on Wednesday that his country is ready to enhance relations with Uzbekistan, including providing it with supplies of energy.
In a meeting with the Uzbek Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov in Tehran, Rouhani said that Iran considers Uzbekistan a friendly country in the past and future that has lots of commonalities related to history, culture, civilization and religion as well as national and regional interests, IRNA reported.
He also said that beside expanding transit routes, the two countries should improve their banking and issues related to visa in order that their private sectors could use the opportunities in the other countries
Referring to Iran's achievements in high technologies and technical-engineering, he said that Iranian firms are prepared to provide eservices to Uzbekistan that are compatible with international standards.
The Iranian President said that Iran is fully ready to meet Uzbekistan's needs to energy. He also said that holding regular sessions of joint committee will pave the way for boosting bilateral relations.
On the importance of regional security, Rouhani said that since the security affairs of all countries in the region is intertwined, and therefore, they all should take part in a collective effort to sustain the security and stability of the region.
Meanwhile, the Uzbek Minister Kamilov said that Tashkent is seeking a boost in relations with Tehran in all spheres, too.
'Implementation of the agreements between the two countries' agreements in Astana talks, was a new chapter in bilateral ties,' he added.
'Our goal is to enhance the economic and cultural relations between the two countries alongside the political ones, and the visits by high-ranking Iranian officials to Uzbekistan is a big stride on the path of joint cooperation,' the Minister said.
He also emphasized that the two countries with their rich Islamic histories can stop the spread of extremist thoughts in the region.