A 5-member Iranian delegation met Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif here on Monday and matters regarding co-operation in different sectors were discussed. The delegation included Commercial Atashi Mehdi Tardaust, M Hassan Bina Rizvi, Syed Murtaza Haider, Hadi Khusromanesh and Masudi Naimatzaday. Member National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Member Punjab Assembly Zaeem Qadri, Secretary Energy and Commissioner Lahore were also present on the occasion, disclosed an official.
Talking to the Iranian delegation, the Chief Minister said Pakistan and Iran have longstanding fraternal and historic relations and there is a need to take measures for transforming them into trade and economic ties.
He also said Pakistan, Iran and Turkey can launch joint ventures for the benefit of the three countries. "Setting up of a modern slaughter house in the provincial metropolis with the collaboration of Iran is a milestone in Pak-Iran friendship and will be furthered as a consolidated project," he added.
According to him, an agreement has been signed with Turkey in the sector of solid waste management worth US $320 million and its implementation will be started from February 5. Similarly, foundation stone of Bus Rapid Transit has also been laid and this project will be completed with the co-operation of Turkey. In the first phase, the section from Gajumata to Shahadra will be completed in the month of February.
Welcoming the offer of co-operation in energy sector by the delegation, the Chief Minister said Pakistan is facing energy shortage, which is leaving a negative impact on industrial, trade and other sectors. He said experts from Punjab will be sent to Iran for reviewing matters for co-operation in energy sector.
The members of Iranian delegation said they have visited various countries but they have a feeling of affinity in Pakistan. They said an exhibition of Iranian products is being arranged in Lahore while a group of businessmen from Punjab is visiting Iran for promoting trade relations. "Kharasan Rizvi and Punjab can cooperate in different sectors and more projects like slaughter house can be initiated. Iran is also ready to cooperate in the transfer of technology in energy and agri implements sector," they added.
The delegation conveyed the message of good wishes on behalf of the governor of Kharasan Rizvi Dr Mahmood Salahi to Chief Minister and extended invitation to him to visit Mashhad.
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