VP: Iran Offers Start of Direct Flights between Tehran, Bishkek

"Iran is ready to start direct flights between Tehran and Bishkek and offer facilities to traders (of the two countries)," Rahimi said at a meeting with Kyrgyz President Almazbek Atambayev in Bishkek on Wednesday, and called for the removal of visa requirements for facilitated reciprocal visits by the two countries' nationals.

Rahimi further underlined Iran's self-sufficiency in building dams and power plants as well as execution of infrastructural projects, and said, "Iranian companies can start activities in Kyrgyzstan in dam building, mine exploration and exploitation and house and railroad construction."

During the meeting, Atambayev, for his part, described Tehran-Bishkek diplomatic ties as "deeply rooted and developing", and said Kyrgyzstan is willing to utilize Iran's experiences and know-how in different areas.

He expressed the hope that Rahimi's visit to Bishkek would open a "new chapter" in bilateral relations between the two countries in all fields, specially in trade and economic cooperation.

Iran and Central Asia have in recent years accelerated their efforts to expand bilateral and regional cooperation in all the various fields.

Last October, Iranian Parliament Speaker Ali Larijani voiced the Iranian lawmakers' full support for expanding relations and cooperation with Kyrgyzstan, and said Tehran is prepared to assist Bishkek with economic and industrial development.

The speaker voiced pleasure in the two countries' expanding cooperation in various sectors, and said, "Iran's abundant possibilities and capabilities in the different industrial and technological fields have prepared a significant ground for the consolidation of the friendly relations between the two states."

He further reiterated Iran's readiness to aid Kyrgyzstan in advancing its economic and industrial development plans.
irna/281