Russia mulls free trade zone with Iran - energy minister

TEHRAN, March 14. /TASS/. Russia is considering creation of a free trade zone with Iran, Energy Ministry and co-chair of the intergovernmental Russian-Iranian commission on trade and economic cooperation Alexander Novak said at a meeting with co-chair from the Iranian side, Minister of Communications Mahmoud Vaezi. "We’re studying the issue of introducing a free trade zone with Iran," Novak said when speaking about common issues and problems related to bilateral trade and economic relations between Tehran and Moscow. "As far as free trade is concerned I can say that on February 2, a joint research group submitted the first draft report to the Iranian side for consideration," Novak said. "I have to note that the level of our current economic relations is in line with political ties. In general our ties with Iran have become more intense," he said, adding that metal products and chemicals are potential export items to Iran from Russia. "We want to compare notes regarding the main areas of cooperation before the upcoming meeting of the intergovernmental commission. In fact, the preparations are over. Many representatives of Russian ministries and departments have visited Tehran. The meeting of representatives of our countries’ central banks was particularly fruitful," Novak said. The next meeting of the intergovernmental commission will take place in Tehran this year. Read more