Iran, Oman ink $7b gas deal

April 22, 2008 - 0:0

TEHRAN, Apr. 21 (MNA) – Iran and Oman on Monday signed a $7 billion joint investment agreement on development and exploitation of the Kish gas field in southern Iran.

“The document which was inked on joint investment for development and exploitation of (Kish) gas field is valued at $7 billion which can increase to $12 billion,” First Vice President Parviz Davudi told reporters in a press conference with Deputy Prime Minister of the Sultanate of Oman Fahd bin Mahmud al-Said.
Earlier in a meeting, Iranian and Omani officials signed memoranda of understanding on cooperation in tourism and gas export. The two countries’ foreign ministers also signed an agreement on Iran-Oman strategic cooperation.
The accords on tourism and strategic partnership will provide the ground for expansion of cultural relations and a coordinated stance towards regional and international issues, Davudi told reporters.
The vice president said he also held talks with Fahd over the current crises in Palestine, Iraq, and Lebanon. The two sides believe that conflicts should be resolved through negotiation, he added.
“In light of the (regional) countries’ cooperation and after the withdrawal of outsiders from the region, the ground would be fertile for the comprehensive development of the region, especially in economic sector,” Davudi observed.
Fahd said Iran and Oman have a common stance on regional and international issues.
The Omani government and people welcome improving relations with the Islamic Republic, he added.
“The documents that were inked today are one of many steps the two countries are taking toward boosting cooperation.”
“In talks with senior Iranian officials we discussed various regional issues. Tehran and Muscat will continue their constant talks (on ways) to maintain security and stability of the region,” Fahd stated.
BA/ END MN