Iran calls for establishment of new general economic zone
Tehran Times Political Desk

TEHRAN – Iran has called for joint efforts with Turkey to establish a new economic zone that will include Middle Eastern, Central Asian and Caucasus countries.

The announcement came during a meeting on Monday between Turkish President Abdullah Gul and the Expediency Council Secretary Mohsen Rezaii who is in Ankara heading a delegation of the EC members.

Rezaii said Tehran has predicted the establishment of such an economic zone in its outlook plan, and that Iran and Turkey, like Germany and France in the European Union, could play an important role in this regard.

“We, in this zone which (we) have called it South Western Asia, will pursue important economic and trade objectives,” he added.

He also said that energy, trade and tourism activities in this zone could give a major boost to other spheres particularly economy.

The Turkish president, for his part, highlighted Rezaii’s role in Tehran-Ankara relations, saying the EC secretary plays a significant role in Iran’s political system.

He went on to say that the Turkish government and people are willing to expand economic ties with Iran.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Gul said Iran’s nuclear activities are peaceful and that Turkey, as a close friend of Iran, will support what was agreed in the Geneva talks between Iran and the 5+1 group.

Rezaii, in a separate meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu, said the proposed South West Asian economic bloc would have a strategic impact on bilateral ties between the two countries.

He said the plan would not only bring about significant economic growth for the two countries, but also strengthen peace and stability in the region.

For his part, Davutoglu said that Turkey will strenuously support the plan in accordance with the Economic Cooperation Organization’s regulations.

He also said Ankara could act like a bridge between Iran and Europe and that Iran could help establish relations between Turkey and Central Asian nations

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