WANA (Sep 07) –The Chinese Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Iran stated that China has an active economy and is eager to expand cooperation with Iran, but the main obstacle is the sanctions imposed by Western countries.

 

During a meeting with economic leaders in Semnan at the conference hall of the province’s Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines, and Agriculture, Zong Peiwu said that steps have been taken over the past year to facilitate visa issuance, and other measures could be considered to further ease this process.

 

He added, “The root of the problems faced by economic actors lies in the sanctions imposed by Western countries and the United States. Although I don’t have much knowledge of the Persian language, the word ‘sanctions’ has been repeated multiple times during this meeting.”

 

Zong Peiwu noted that China has the capacity and willingness to cooperate with Iran but refrained from commenting on strengthening these ties at the moment, expressing hope that cooperation will increase in the future.

 

The Chinese ambassador in Iran also remarked that China’s economy is developing steadily and stably, with the country achieving 5% GDP growth in the first half of this year, which is not an easy feat.

 

According to him, China’s export and import volume reached its highest level in the first half of this year, and considering the high-quality mineral and agricultural products from Semnan, China is exploring the possibility of importing these products.

 

Zong Peiwu said, “China’s model of development and high-quality construction for connecting cities along the Belt and Road Initiative is notable, and more discussion with Semnan officials about changes in construction along the Silk Road is beneficial.”

 

Semnan Governor Mohammad Reza Hashemi, who was also present at the meeting, stated that the province is ready to sign a memorandum of cooperation with China in areas such as the digital economy and artificial intelligence. Hashemi added that Semnan has significant potential for investment in renewable energy, with seven Chinese investors already working in the solar energy sector within the province.

Plans to Establish a Semnan Desk at the Chinese Embassy

The Mayor of Semnan, Hossein Mousavi, mentioned that the International Silk Road Center was established in Semnan in 2022, and a conference of experts is planned to utilize the province’s membership in the International Union of Cities along the Silk Road.

 

Mousavi added that on September 19, a delegation from Semnan’s municipality will travel to China to mark the anniversary of the founding of the International Union of Cities along the Silk Road.

 

According to Mousavi, there are already strong ties between Semnan and China, and establishing a Semnan desk at the Chinese Embassy will help resolve issues and strengthen economic and trade exchanges.

 

Semnan’s selection as the only representative of Iran in the “International Union of Tourism Cities along the Silk Road” is a valuable opportunity for economic transformation and the enhancement of global trade relations for the benefit of the city, province, and country. Achieving this vision and making the most of this golden opportunity requires national and provincial funding, coordinated planning, serious determination, unity, and the efforts of officials.

 

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The “Silk Road” or “Silk Route” was a network of interconnected trade routes across Asia that linked East, West, and South Asia with North Africa and Eastern Europe. This route, which was the world’s largest trade network for 1,700 years, flourished until the 15th century. The name “Silk Road” was given due to the significant trade in silk goods during various historical periods.

 

The “Silk Road” is considered one of the most important historical routes in the world, serving as a communication link between countries and playing a pivotal role in international trade. Today, this historic road is regaining its importance, and experts believe the Silk Road will play a crucial role in the future global economy. Given its location on this route, the city of Semnan has the potential to become a tourism jewel along the Silk Road.

 

The “International Union of Tourism Cities along the Silk Road” has 40 member cities, half of which are in China. Semnan is the only city representing Iran in this Union.