Qodratullah Nowrouzi who is in China for the forum of Asian mayors, told the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) that the issue of diplomatic zone in Isfahan was raised in talks with Chinese officials and they said they would be the first country to open a diplomatic office in the zone.
The mayor also noted that Iran will provide the land and other requirements to foreign countries for opening consulates .
Referring to China's Xi'an as a sister city of Isfahan, the Iranian mayor said that the relations have promoted tourism of the city, but a number of other goals have remained unrealized.
He said that the relations between Isfahan and Chinese investors have been satisfactory as some big projects in the city, such as Isfahan-Tehran railway, and Isfahan's subway logistics, are being conducted by Chinese investors.
'Isfahan is of a much greater capacity for economic, investment and tourism interactions with China,' Nowrouzi said, noting that an upcoming tourism exhibition in the city would welcome the Chinese participants.
Referring to launching Chinese language courses at University of Isfahan with 70 students, the mayor said the academic move and Persian courses for Chinese students are all signs that show the growing cultural relations between the two countries.
At least 170 representatives from various countries are participating in the forum of Asian mayors. Strengthening economic ties among Shanghai Cooperation Organization and promoting sustainable development have been announced as the main goals of the meetings.
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Beijing, May 18, IRNA – China has expressed readiness to be the first country that opens consulate in a diplomatic zone in the central city of Isfahan, mayor of the Iranian city announced Saturday.
