Doha: Iran's ambassador to Doha has outlined significant developments following the 10th Joint Economic Cooperation Commission meeting between Iran and Qatar. The discussions revolved around 15 key negotiation topics, all aimed at bolstering bilateral trade and economic ties.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, the meeting, held on December 10-11, was led by Qatar's Minister of Industry and Commerce, Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani, and Iran's Minister of Energy Abbas Aliabadi. It was designed to strengthen economic collaborations and promote constructive interactions between the two countries. More than 60 representatives from both governmental and private sectors participated in the summit.

In an interview with IRNA released on Wednesday, Ambassador Ali Salehabadi elaborated on the achievements of the commission. He stated that the outcomes included an assessment of capacities based on the latest scientific and technological developments in the global economy, aiming to create new opportunities for future cooperation.

The meeting participants explored various strategies to increase trade volume between Iran and Qatar. Emphasis was placed on aligning with contemporary global economic trends, investing in mutually beneficial sectors, and utilizing the potential of tourism. The delegates also agreed to foster cooperation between their respective chambers of commerce and to establish specialized committees in fields such as trade, customs, culture, tourism, and youth sports.

In conjunction with the commission meeting, a 40-member trade delegation from the Iran-Qatar Joint Chamber visited Qatar's free trade zone, organized by the Iranian embassy. This visit included a seminar at the Qatar Chamber of Commerce, where Iranian and Qatari traders were introduced to potential business opportunities.

Citing data from Iran's customs office (IRICA), Ambassador Salehabadi reported that trade between Iran and Qatar reached a value of $191 million in the first eight months of the calendar year (March 20 to August 20), marking a 25% increase compared to the same period last year. Iran's primary exports to Qatar include agricultural products, fruits, seafood, building materials, minerals, carpets, and dried fruits, while imports from Qatar mainly consist of intermediary products.