The meeting touched upon relevant matters of
multilateral interaction and the trade and economic agenda. In particular,
implementing the Interim Agreement leading to the formation of a free trade
area between the Eurasian Economic Union and its Member States and the Islamic
Republic of Iran, the start of negotiations on a free trade agreement as well
as ways to intensify cooperation in general were discussed.
"Given the established successful practice and
traditionally friendly relations between the EAEU countries and Iran, it is
essential to develop new approaches that will help improve efficiency and
effectiveness of our activities," Mikhail Myasnikovich stressed.
In turn, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has expressed Iran's
keen interest in fully-fledged relations with the EAEU, noting the expediency
of creating the Union and its great growing reputation across the globe.
During the meeting, the attendees exchanged views on
the results and prospects of investment cooperation, cooperation in
manufacturing industry and agriculture and considered issues of ensuring mutual
settlements and response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Particular attention was
paid to transport and logistics projects able to have a positive impact both on
increasing trade turnover between the EAEU countries and Iran and improving
transport connectivity of the entire large Eurasian region.
The meeting was also attended by Kazem Jalali,
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Iran to
the Russian Federation, members of the Mejlis of Iran and Andrey Slepnev,
Member of the Board – Minister in charge of Trade, on the Commission’s part.
For reference
The Interim Agreement leading to the formation of a
free trade area between the Eurasian Economic Union and its Member States, on
the one part, and the Islamic Republic of Iran, on the other part, was signed
on May 17, 2018 and came into force on October 27, 2019.
At the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council’s meeting
held on December 11, 2020, the Heads of the EAEU Member States decided to start
negotiations on the agreement for the free trade area with Iran. Nowadays, the
first consultations are being prepared for. The free trade agreement should be
completed within three years starting from October 27, 2019.