Iran and Kuwait have the potentials to kick off joint ventures for the export of technical and engineering services, said Dr Gavahi, Secretary-General of the Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Mines (ICCIM), at a meeting with Rashed al-Mojran, the Kuwaiti Deputy Minister of Trade and Industries.

While the two officials emphasised their private sectors' resolve for the expansion of bilateral co-operation, Dr Gavahi pointed out that following the Iraqi-imposed war, Iran has failed to expand commercial relations with its neighbouring countries such as Kuwait, Syria and Lebanon, where there is vast potentials for co-operation.

Noting Iran's joint ventures with Lebanon, Pakistan, Jordan and Sudan for the production of power and bitumen, the chamber official echoed Iran's readiness to transfer viable technology to, or launch joint projects with, Kuwait.

He also urged the Kuwaiti Minister to work for the settlement of residence visas of the Iranian nationals living in Kuwait, assuring that their expanded trade activities will certainly serve the Sheikhdom.

By underlining the growth of Iran-Kuwait trade ties, Mr. Mojran pledged to open further projects to the Iranian investors in the Kuwaiti ports and transport sectors. "In an effort to deepen relations, new measures are being considered to settle visa release problems, to resolve banking difficulties, and to grant special privileges to Iranian traders wishing to invest in Kuwait's free trade zone," assured the Kuwaiti Minister.