TEHRAN - In the wake of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) forged between Iran and the 5+1 countries, there has been a flurry of foreign visits to Iran in anticipation of international sanctions on the country being lifted as the implementation day (of JCPOA) is approaching.

Considering this, Danish Foreign Affairs Minister Kristian Jensen, heading a strong trade delegation, arrived in Tehran on Monday to look into expansion of bilateral ties between Iran and Denmark.

After two days of tight schedule and before his departure to Denmark, Mr. Jenson shared his take on the visit in an exclusive interview with the Tehran Times. Thought the interview had economic and political elements, only the economic one has been reported here. The rest will be published soon. In what follows, the transcribed interview has been given.

Q: What are the main purposes behind your visit to Iran?

A: The main purpose is to re-establish good relationships between Iran and Denmark which we had before the sanctions. We can see that trade between the two countries has been hit by the sanctions regime and now as the Implementation Day (of JCPA) is approaching, it’s necessary for us to gear up contacts and partnerships Danish companies had with Iran. We are not only interested in trade with and investment in Iran but also in partnership between Iranian and Danish companies. Therefore, I’m pleased we are signing the first memorandum of understanding between Danish companies and Iranian counterparts.

Q: What are major economic fields for cooperation between Denmark and Iran?

A: I think one of the areas Danish capabilities can be helpful to Iran is the energy sector, including traditional oil and gas domains and renewable energy alternatives. Then, naturally come agri-business and agri-industry areas of collaboration because a large number of Danish companies are active in the dairy sector. Last but absolutely no least, is related to the health sector. Although the health sector has many sub-branches, Danish firms are pioneering ones in the world in fields such as pharmacology and other technical issues. So, we are hopeful to be able to see more cooperation in this field. Actually, as you know, Novo Nordisk (global Danish healthcare company) has already signed a memorandum of understanding to invest $80 million in Iran. They did that in November last year. So, Danish companies are ready to come to Iran not only to trade but to invest.

Q: One of the preconditions of the Iranian government for the post-sanctions era is that foreign investment should be long-term and based on the transfer of technology. What do you think about that? Did you talk about this key issue in your negotiations with the Iranian officials you met?

A: Yes, it was a negotiation theme in our ministerial meetings because we have realized that it is important for Iran to have a concern for the transfer of technology. Danish companies, likewise, can take advantage of the knowledge in Iran. You (Iran) have very many students in technical fields of study and other areas. I think it will be good for Danish companies to have a close cooperation not only to transfer technology to Iran but also to transfer knowledge from the country, as well. This is not a one-way street where Danish companies provide Iranian firms with know-how. Rather, it is a two-way street where Iranian knowledge and scholarship should also benefit Danish companies.

Q: The last question has to do with environmental concerns. Iran has been hit by draughts in recent years and is suffering from water resources management. Did you specifically talk about this?

A: Yes, we did. We talked about the issue yesterday (Monday) because it is very important to manage water resources. In this area, Denmark has a huge experience. We have the world’s leading company in pumps and water supply. We are one of the countries in the world that has high environmental standards, meaning that Danish companies have already the technology and knowledge that Iran needs to deal with the low supply of water, reuse of water, and waste water. So, this is one of the areas we can help Iran grow faster. Literally speaking, this will make it possible for Iran to grow more crops and consequently boost its economy and business. Over the past 25 five years, Denmark has seen an increase in its GDP without energy overuses. So, we have shown the way on how to have a sustainable growth while being mindful of environmental and climate concerns.

Q: Anything else you would like to add?

A: We are positive about the visit because Iran has the 18th largest economy in the world. The lifting of sanctions will bring growth to the country and of course with growth come challenges that Denmark can be helpful to Iran in this transition period.