Tehran: The newly-appointed Swiss ambassador to Tehran, Olivier Bangerter, has outlined his priorities for enhancing bilateral cooperation between Switzerland and Iran. His focus includes elevating the partnership between the two nations and supporting Swiss companies operating within Iran.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Ambassador Bangerter disclosed his intentions during a meeting with Samad Hassanzadeh, the head of Iran’s Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines, and Agriculture (ICCIMA) in Tehran. Emphasizing his main goals, Bangerter stated, “My first priority is to improve the level of cooperation between Iran and Switzerland.” He further added, “The second priority is to support Swiss companies active in Iran that seek to expand their activities.”

The ambassador noted a gradual increase in bilateral trade over the past five years and highlighted the necessity of addressing challenges faced by companies, specifically their access to foreign exchange for imports and the protection of intellectual property rights.

Samad Hassanzadeh, representing the Iranian perspective, stressed the importance of expanding economic, scientific, and academic cooperation with Switzerland. He highlighted Iran’s potential for fostering relations in these sectors and identified free trade zones as promising venues for joint investment ventures, particularly in non-sanctioned domains.

Hassanzadeh also remarked on Iran’s advancements in advanced technologies and knowledge-based products, including petrochemicals, polymers, and the medical and pharmaceutical industries, despite existing restrictions.