On September 8, opening a meeting with the delegation of the Islamic Republic of Iran led by Deputy Governor of Iran’s East Azerbaijan Province Mr. Huseyin Behbudi, Tatarstan Prime Minister Ildar Khalikov welcomed the guests and expressed his hope that the meeting will give a new impetus to successful and long-term cooperation between the two republics.

Iran is a long-time partner of Tatarstan. In 2013, bilateral trade turnover between Tatarstan and Iran made 8.7 million US dollars and there is potential for the development of mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields.

Tatarstan as a region having strong industrial production, favorable investment climate and high scientific potential, has real opportunities to develop more diversified relations with Iranian partners to include innovative technologies, joint ventures, as well as such fields as agriculture, light industry and Halal products.

The exchange of experience related to special economic zones and industrial parks is another promising area of cooperation between Tatarstan and Iran. Special attention should be given to attract potential investors to establish joint ventures at the Alabuga and Innopolis special economic zones, the Master Kama Industrial Park, IT- parks, as well as Himgrad Technopolis in Tatarstan.

Mr. Huseyin Behbudi also showed interest in innovative projects implemented in Tatarstan and expressed a desire for developing trade, economic and investment cooperation with Tatarstan.