BERN Switzerland plans to sign an investment agreement with Iran, an indication relations between the two countries are returning to normal, the Swiss Federal Office of Foreign Trade said on Tuesday. The signing is expected when a Swiss delegation, including private industry representatives, visits the country from March 6 to 10, led by Swiss government envoy Nicolas Imboden. Discussions will include different views regarding principles of democracy, the office said.

The Swiss delegation would try to get an idea of Iran's current economic and financial situation, it added. The visit is a sign diplomatic relations are thawing after European ambassadors returned to Tehran in November following their recall last April. The 15-member Swiss delegation includes executives from Swiss machinery, watchmaking, engineering, foods, and chemicals industry, as well as from banks and trade sectors.

(Reuter)