France has expressed a renewed willingness to deepen cooperation with Iran in the water industry, positioning itself as a potential partner in one of Iran’s most critical infrastructure challenges. Pierre Cochard, France’s ambassador to Iran, said during a meeting with Samad Hassanzadeh, president of Iran’s Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture, that several leading French companies in the water sector are ready to engage in future joint projects with Iran.
Cochard highlighted the centuries-old cultural and economic ties between the two nations, stressing that France recognizes the intellectual potential, economic capacities, and youthful talent within Iran. He underscored that Paris does not seek the continuation of sanctions and noted that EU and UN restrictions—focused primarily on military and nuclear concerns—are far narrower than US sanctions. As a result, sectors such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and food industries remain open for cooperation. According to the ambassador, the French Embassy is working to broaden partnerships in these non-sanctioned fields and maintains an open visa policy, particularly for economic actors.
Hassanzadeh emphasized that even in the most difficult political conditions, trade in goods and services related to human health should not be restricted. With bilateral trade standing at roughly $400 million—far below potential—he called for expanding cooperation in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and food industries. Referring to Iran’s deepening water crisis, he noted France’s advanced expertise and equipment in water management and urged greater humanitarian-minded engagement to help Iran address its shortages.
Arash Najafi, head of the Chamber’s Energy Commission, echoed these sentiments, reminding that Iran and France have maintained economic and political relations for over 500 years. He pointed to successful collaboration in carbon-reduction initiatives and stated that Iran has performed better than required under the Paris Agreement. The sole major obstacle, he argued, has been FATF-related constraints, which he hopes will be resolved.
Najafi added that sectors such as carbon reduction, fuel-efficiency optimization, and renewable energy represent a global market exceeding $100 billion annually—an opportunity neither country can afford to ignore. With Iran holding 9 percent of the world’s mineral and natural resources, he stressed that both sides can build rational, mutually beneficial frameworks for cooperation even amid ongoing sanctions.
