How to boost Nigeria, Iran trade ties, by envoys

NIGERIA’S Ambassador to Iran, Tukur Mani has urged real sector operators in Nigeria and Iran to form stronger ties that will lead to the economic development of the two countries.

Speaking in Lagos at the first Iran solo exhibition in Nigeria, Mani said: “Both Nigeria and Iran have a lot to share in the areas of science and technology, agriculture, culture and tourism as well as the extractive industry.”

Mani noted “in the face of glaring opportunities, the trade between the two countries is still below $500 million yearly.”

He urged the countries to use their memberships of various international organisations such as the United Nations (UN), Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and others to improve economic and trade relations for the benefit of the people.

To Iran’s ambassador to Nigeria, Saeed Koozechi, there are doors of business opportunities for both Iranian and Nigerian businessmen, which, if harnessed, would solidify the relationship between the countries.

“We are both aware that there are lots of capacities and capabilities that should be taken into serious consideration. Africa has always been the major strategic partner of Iran and of course Iran has always been a true friend of Nigeria, we therefore look forward to consolidating the good relations that already exist between the two countries”, Koozechi said.

He lamented over the absence of accurate information on the capacities and capabilities of business opportunities, stressing that the factor remained a major challenge that must be urgently addressed. ‘There should be a good level of economic cooperation between the two regional giants.

Exhibition and subsequent one on one meeting are playing important role in fact finding regarding the capacities and capabilities of both sides.”

Koozechi stated. According to him, the Islamic Republic of Iran is willing to advance the existing level of cooperation at the different areas and fields and would be most willing to further promote business between the two countries.

Managing Director of Pars Rastak Co., Mahdi Saeedolzakerin, who organised the event, said that Nigerian companies could start and continue a very good mutual cooperation in different kinds of trading and business activities. The event, which was a gathering of exhibitors in the areas of oil and gas; automobile; building and construction; textile; and others, brought no fewer than 50 companies together for business promotion.