Iran, Italy sign multiple MoUs to boost ties

Iran and Italy inked seven memorandums of understanding (MoUs) here on Tuesday to elevate bilateral ties in diverse areas.

The documents, signed in the presence of Iran's President Hassan Rouhani and Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, are set to help both countries expand their cooperation in science and technology, tourism, environment, energy and railway sectors.

Heading a high ranking delegation of 250 commercial and economic officials, Renzi arrived in capital Tehran on Tuesday for a two-day visit.

In a joint press conference, Rouhani and Renzi agreed that they should promote comprehensive cooperation in economic, scientific, political and cultural areas.

Rouhani drew upon the importance of Italy for Iran, saying that he paid his first European visit to Italy following the nuclear agreement between Iran and the world powers.

Renzi's ongoing visit also bears the clear message of both countries' resolve to expand all-out ties, Rouhani said.

Iran and Italy have recently signed over 30 cooperation agreements which should be put into practice, he said, adding that carrying out these agreements could pave the way for better bilateral ties, particularly in economy, investment and technology.

The Italian leader said that the visit is significant, during which the Italian financial experts will discuss banking issues with their Iranian partners to facilitate sustained economic ties.

Meanwhile, Both Rouhani and Renzi stressed the fight against violence and extremism, and the Italian premier said "I agree that one effective means in this regard is cultural work."

The meeting also touched on a series of regional crises and the ways to settle them as well as the refugee crisis concerning the European countries. Endit