Operation of border markets in Sistan-Baluchestan prompts economic safety

Chabahar, Sistan-Baluchestan Prov., Nov 8, IRNA – Operation of 12 border marketplaces in Sistan-Baluchestan Province simultaneous with institutionalization of border exchange and helping livelihood of border dwellers will entail employment and economic-social safety. Such a government policy which faced many ups and downs in the past is one of the most strategic methods in creating economic advantages and is also a deterrent factor in line with reducing border threats and as an arm to civil defense has been able to turn numerous border threats to opportunities in Sistan-Baluchestan Province. Chabahar Trade, Industrial Free Zone as an economic organization which is located along lengthy water and soil coastal areas with cities bordering neighboring countries is an opportunity for developing the eastern axis. Hamed Ali Mobaraki, managing director of the zone, said Sistan-Baluchestan has 900 km of joint borders with Pakistan, 300 km with Afghanistan, and about 300 km water border with the Gulf of Oman. He said with regard to the mentioned characteristics, border commercial aspects are of specific importance and formation of 12 border marketplaces which has been ratified by the cabinet ministers can be evaluated in this regard. Underlining importance of borders, he said establishment of proper infrastructure plays a significant role in economic prosperity of eastern borders with neighboring countries. He said Sistan-Baluchestan Province has long before been located on the world trade route, adding that hidden capacities and capabilities in the region has resulted in activation of Chabahar free zone along with other potentials of the province such as border marketplaces. According to the official, Chabahar as the shortest and the most economy way for Central Asia and Afghanistan in gaining access to open seas enjoys many privileges taking advantage of which will provide for development of eastern axis of the country. He described Chabahar as the trade forehead of the country in south eastern part and a point connecting Iran to the world open seas, adding that according to the Supreme Leader operation of Chabahar-Milak transit route will result in the development of southeast of the country and thus bring about outstanding developments in the field of economy and business in the region. He further added that Chabahar Trade, Industrial Free Zone has provided job opportunities for hundreds of work force and massive investment in petrochemical, steel and auto manufacturing as well as in gas pipelines and cement factory./end