PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) meets with Speaker of the Parliament of Iran Ali Ardeshir Larijani in Hanoi, April 16, 2018.

At a meeting with Speaker of the Parliament of Iran Ali Ardeshir Larijani on Monday, PM Phuc urged Vietnamese and Iranian agencies to map out cooperation orientations in tourism, mineral, oil and gas, to increase trade to 2 billion USD. He requested more high-level delegation exchanges and activities to celebrate 45 years of diplomatic ties.

Mr. Phuc said Vietnam encourages Iranian firms to invest in agricultural production, sea transportation, port construction, and support industries.

Mr. Larijani said the Parliament of Iran recently approved a 5-year master development plan which encourages foreign investment in oil and gas, petrochemicals, liquefied petroleum gas, and agriculture. Iran wants to cooperate with Vietnam in information technology, cyber-security, and environmental protection, Larijani noted, adding that Iran welcomes and will facilitate Vietnamese enterprises doing business in the country. Mr. Larijani suggested the two countries set up a direct air route and simplify visa procedures to boost tourism. He also urged closer cooperation in finance and banking to increase trade.