/By Azernews/

By Amina Nazarli

Expansion of cooperation in the agrarian sector was discussed during the meeting between Azerbaijan’s Economy Minister Shahin Mustafayev and Iranian Agriculture Minister Mahmoud Hojjati.

The Iranian delegation of entrepreneurs led by Mahmoud Hojjati visited Azerbaijan on May 15-17.

Mustafayev, addressing the event, said that agriculture is an important area of cooperation between Azerbaijan and Iran, and both countries have ample opportunities to expand cooperation in this field.

“Azerbaijan is interested in cooperation with Iran in the field of cotton, seed production and cultivation of seedlings. We also want to learn from the experience of Iran in the field of dried fruit harvesting and expand cooperation in the establishment of enterprises for the production of dried fruits in Azerbaijan. In addition, Azerbaijan is interested in Iranian farm machinery,” the economy minister said.

Mustafayev also suggested Iranian exporters to use Azerbaijani logistics center in Kazakhstan’s city of Aktau.

Mahmoud Hojjati stressed the importance of using the existing potential for boosting bilateral ties in the agricultural sector.

Azerbaijan and Iran could together export to third countries, according to the Iranian minister.

Hojjati also noted the interest of the Iranian farmers to lease land in Azerbaijan, as well as in joint investments.

The two countries also agreed on possibility of creating a joint venture for the production of medicines for plants and animals, which may become one of major directions in diversifying the non-oil sector of the economy.

Agriculture is one of the most important spheres for Azerbaijan and Iran, which could increase the trade turnover by 53 percent to $41.4 million in the first quarter of 2016, as compared to the same period of 2015.

With an advantageous geographic location, Azerbaijan enjoys every opportunity to increase export of high quality agro products, which are in great demand in neighboring countries.

Experts believe that with the further development of production of high quality agricultural goods, Azerbaijan will be able not only to increase the supply to neighboring countries, but also enter markets in Eastern Europe.

Iran’s most important crops are wheat, rice, other grains, sugar beets, fruits, nuts, cotton, and tobacco. Iran also produces dairy products, wool, and a large amount of timber. The country is increasingly importing food technology, including processing and packaging equipment. The agricultural sector in Iran accounts for about one-fifth of the GDP and employs one-third of the workforce.