Rouhani: A New Chapter in Iran-Italy Relations Has Begun

Matteo Renzi, the Prime Minister of Italy, said during a press conference with Hassan Rouhani, the President of Iran, on Monday, February 5, in Rome, that the commercial contracts signed today are only the 'beginning' of a new phase in the relations between the two countries. Hassan Rouhani also stated that a new chapter in the relations of the two countries has begun. According to Reuters, the value of the commercial contracts signed during Hassan Rouhani's two-day visit to Italy amounts to 18.4 billion dollars. Rouhani arrived in Italy on Monday for his first official visit to Europe, eleven days after the lifting of nuclear sanctions against Tehran, and Iranian officials hope that Iran can expand its relations with Western countries. According to AFP, the Iranian President said at the press conference alongside the Italian Prime Minister that the Iranian market provides an opportunity for Italian and European investors to expand their activities to other regions. According to IRNA, the Iranian President emphasized that Iran's conditions in terms of security, energy, human resources, and geopolitics are extensive, and our country can be a regional hub in these areas. He added that the presence of European and Italian economic actors for investment, technology, and joint activities will be effective in placing part of our market in Italy and gaining a share of the foreign market. Hassan Rouhani stated, 'A new chapter in Iran-Italy relations has begun, and both sides are determined to increase their cooperation in all areas.' Matteo Renzi, the Italian Prime Minister, also stated, 'We signed the first contracts today, but we have just begun a long path for cooperation.' Reports indicate that Iran and Italy signed 14 cooperation documents on Monday night, Rome time. Hassan Rouhani is leading a high-level delegation of 120 people to Europe and is scheduled to go to France on Wednesday. Reports indicate that Iran has signed contracts for the construction of a 2,000-kilometer pipeline by the Italian oil company 'Saipem' and also with the Italian steel company Danieli for a joint steel venture. According to AFP, large commercial contracts with Airbus and car manufacturers Peugeot and Renault are expected to be concluded during Hassan Rouhani's visit to France.