Dep FM meets with New Zealand Trade Minister

Kuala Lumpur, Nov 9, IRNA – Deputy Foreign Minister for Asia-Pacific Affairs Ibrahim Rahimpour met with New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay in Wellington on Wednesday. Rahimpour, who is in Wellington to attend the 5th politico-economic cooperation commission meeting between Iran and New Zealand, welcomed news concerning visit of Trade Minister Mc Clay accompanied by private sector delegation to Iran next month. Iran's Ambassador to New Zealand Jalal –alddin Namini Mianeji was present In the meeting as well. Rahimpour discussed and exchanged views with Mc Clay diversified grounds for mutual economic relations and establishment of sustainable and deep ties between economic enterprises of the two countries. Removal of the problem with banking relations between Iran and New Zealand and joint investment by the two countries' companies were among issues discussed in the meeting. The issue is to be discussed during visit of Mc Clay and the accompanying delegation to Iran. Regarding Iran's strategic position, Rahimpour expressed Tehran's readiness to transit New Zealand's goods into the region, using Iranian ports, railway and roads. Todd McClay underlined Iran's economic importance and expressed hope that during his visit to Iran next month, bilateral economic relations can be developed. Rahimpour also met with representatives of four international banks in Wellington on Wednesday as well as Deputy Secretary for Australia, Europe, Middle East and Africa Affairs Jeff Langley separately. The 5th politico-economic cooperation commission meeting of Iran and New Zealand was held here on Wednesday under chairmanship of deputy foreign ministers of the two countries. Rahimpour had already visited Kazakhstan, Philippines and Australia and arrived in Wellington on Tuesday evening. 1378/IRNA