Representatives of Iran and Romania met on Tuesday in Bandar Anzali to reiterate their will to boost economic ties, especially in the fields of trade and tourism, and target the strategic coastal city located in northern Iran as a conduit.
Bogdan Pakorari, the economic advisor of Romanian Embassy in Iran, held talks with members of Bandar Anzali Mayor Hassan Pourqorban, IRNA reported.
He said Bandar Anzali, which is the capital city of Gilan Province, has vast potential to boost bilateral economic ties.
"We are striving to develop Iran-Romania ties from all angles just like in the past, and therefore I propose that Bandar Anzali and Tulcea in my country will be declared sister cities," he added.
The Romanian representative pointed out that the stage is set for the two countries to make investments and create opportunities for private sector companies to cooperate. He said he hopes Romania can act as Bandar Anzali's gateway to Europe.
Pakorari said his proposal is based on the fact that Bandar Anzali is in many regards, including location, natural attractions and tourism capacities, similar to Tulcea.
"Tulcea Port is equipped with good port facilities and the biggest lagoon. And since it links with Danube River [Europe's second-largest], it can provide commute access to ships and act as a suitable path for transiting goods through water passages," he said.
Pakorari pointed out that the sea route is one of the best for exporting livestock through the Black Sea and the Volga River, the longest river in Europe, to the Caspian Sea and vice versa.
The Bandar Anzali mayor welcomed expansion of economic, trade and tourism ties between his city and Tulcea.
"There are suitable investment packages ready to be offered to foreign investors here in Bandar Anzali," he said.
Pourqorban supported the proposal to declare Bandar Anzali and Tulcea sister cities, saying several more meetings should be held as soon as possible to work out the details.
