Head of Ilam Branch of Iran's Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Mines Mohammad Ahmadi said here Monday that Ilam province is the key for commercial relations and expansion of exports to Iraq.
Ahmadi told a group of his personnel that 430 kms of common borders with Iraq and the family and commercial ties have turned Ilam into crossroads of economic relations between Iran and Iraq over recent years.
He said Mehran exit in Ilam is now fully ready to export different kinds of goods and services to Iraq.
He added that the private sector in the province too is fully prepared to broaden commercial, customs, construction, health and servicing activities in Iraqi cities.
The official said Ilam has since the past been maintaining good relations with Iraqi religious cities, which necessitates to use the advantage properly for economic development of the region.
He noted that now after fall of Iraqi region, proper grounds ave been prepared for expansion of commercial relations and visits to holy sites.
Ahmadi concluded that expansion of commercial activities between Iran and Iraq can serve as a strong backing for mutual solidarity.
Mehran exit is one of the most important hubs for exchange of visits by pilgrims and export of Iranian goods to Iraq.
About dlrs 200 million worth non-oil commodities are annually exported to Iraq via Mehran International and Trade Border 90 kms south of Ilam by Iranian and foreign traders and merchants.
© IRNA 2008
