IRAN DAILY
Jan. 29, 2011
Turkey’s State Minister Cevdet Yilmaz and Iranain Deputy First Vice-President in Economic Affairs Ali Aqa-Mohammadi visited Kapikoy border crossing in eastern province of Van and crossed the border.
Speaking with the Iranian side, Yilmaz said efforts were underway to boost economic and commercial relations between the two countries.
Yilmaz said on Thursday that borders should be considered as elements uniting the countries, not separating them, Worldbulletin reported.
Referring to the $30 billion trade target put forth by the leaders, Yilmaz said, "There is a strong political will. Both parties have to fulfill their responsibilities to this end.
Finalizing trade deal between Turkey and Iran and boosting free trade are parts of the efforts. There are also important opportunities to improve relations in tourism,” he added.
Yilmaz said boosting bilateral relations would contribute to the welfare of 150 million people and help improvement of political relations.
"We made an important step. Studies continue in Gurbulak and Esendere border crossings. Kapikoy border gate is an extremely critical area. We took the first step to transport cargo through highway,” Yilmaz said.
Iranian official Aqa-Mohammadi said, "We will open common border gate and see there will be significant progress with respect to commercial relations. The 15 km section which causes difficulty will be concluded soon. I hope industry zone between the two countries will also be concluded soon. We aim to achieve 30 $billion target. Free trade talks also continue between Turkey and Iran. We aim to overcome all the problems.”
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