Malaysia-Iran joint commission to oversee projects
By Hamidah Atan
Mar 3, 2006
New Staits Times

PUTRAJAYA, Thurs. Malaysia and Iran today established a joint commission to oversee the implementation of development projects in several areas of co-operation identified by leaders from both countries.

Four memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed between representatives from both countries, witnessed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi and Iranian president Dr Mahmoud Ahmadinejad at the Prime Minister’s Department today.

The first MoU, on co-operation in co-operative societies development, was signed between Entrepreneur and Co-operative Development Minister Datuk Khaled Nordin and Iranian Minister of Co-operatives Mohammad Nazemi Ardakani.

The second MoU, acknowledging co-operation in construction and urban development between the two countries, was signed by Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting and Iranian Minister of Housing and Urban Development Mohammad Saeedikia.

The MoUs between Export and Import Bank of Malaysia Berhad and Export Guarantee Fund of Iran and an agreement facilitating re-insurance were signed by Exim Bank chief operating officer Mohd Nordin Abbas and the managing director of the Iranian Export Development Bank, Dr Nourooz Kohzadi.

Abdullah said his meeting with Ahmadinejad was "a successful bilateral meeting where we were able to identify areas of co-operation, especially in the construction of infrastructure, housing and railways."

Discussions also covered education, tourism and bio-technology.

"We decided today that whatever we agree upon today will be followed up and monitored by a joint commission, which has been set up," Abdullah said.

"I believe today’s meeting is an achievement that can move forward our bilateral relations in ways that can benefit both countries."

Ahmadinejad, in expressing his happiness with meeting the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Abdullah and Malaysian Cabinet ministers, said he and Abdullah had agreed to enhance co-operation in some areas, including scientific studies and transportation.

"We will collaborate and structure our co-operation and interaction," he said. "On the political front, Iran’s position and view is that we will continue to look for peace and tranquillity for all beings based on fairness and justice.

"I believe the might of my country and Malaysia will not be detrimental to other countries. We will serve international peace and tranquillity."

Extending an invitation to Abdullah to visit Iran, Ahmadinejad assured that the joint commission would get ready a number of projects which had been agreed between the two countries once Abdullah visits Iran.

Source: http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/nst/Friday/National/20060303071520/Article/index_html