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Croatia: Time to Build on Friendly Ties

Croatia: Time to Build  on Friendly Ties
Croatia: Time to Build  on Friendly Ties

Iran and Croatia have always had friendly relations even during sanctions years and their efforts to promote economic and cultural cooperation should be stepped up, a senior Croatian lawmaker says.

Speaker of the Croatian Parliament Josip Leko made the remark in a press conference in Tehran on Saturday after meeting Majlis Speaker Ali Larijani, IRNA reported.  

Stressing that bilateral relations are based on mutual respect and understanding, Leko said, "This has been my third meeting with Iran's Majlis speaker, which has definitely helped win each other's trust."

According to the Croatian lawmaker, Iran's position in addressing international issues including terrorism is prominent.

"We see Iran as a key player not only in the region but also in the world; moreover, it is a country with a long history as well as a rich culture which explains why we are willing to exchange views with such a power on a regular basis," Leko noted.

Although Croatia is a member of the European Union, which imposed sanctions on Iran over its nuclear program, it never halted efforts to boost cooperation with Tehran, he said, expressing hope that his country's economic collaboration with Iran would reach an acceptable level as it is not satisfactory at present with respect to the enormous potential the two sides can exploit.

Offering condolences over the Sept. 24 crush disaster during Hajj rituals in Mecca which claimed the lives of more than 450 Iranian pilgrims, Leko said under such doleful circumstances maintaining unity is of great importance.

According to Larijani, the two sides discussed launching joint economic ventures in addition to developing academic and scientific cooperation.  

Leko, heading a parliamentary and economic delegation, arrived in Tehran on Saturday to hold meetings with Iranian industry officials.

Financialtribune.com