TEHRAN -- In a meeting of Iran-Belgium Chamber of Commerce bilateral trade cooperation was reviewed here Monday. The Public Relations Department of the Chamber of Commerce reported that Belgium Ambassador to Iran Christian Courtois said at the meeting, ``Belgium's exports to Iran stood at 82.648 million Belgian Franks in 1998, which was two million Franks higher than that in 1997.'' He also said that Belgian imports from Iran totalled 1.569 million Belgian Franks, adding the figure was 9.3 percent less than the previous year.

The Belgian ambassador further stated that the recent rise in oil prices is the result of Iranian diplomatic efforts, adding this will lead to improvement in Iranian economy. The Head of Chamber of Commerce Ali Naqi Khamoushi referred to the deep historical ties between the two countries and said, ``At this juncture, it is necessary for the Belgian companies to have a plan on cooperation with Iran.'' He added that Iran's sensitive geo-political position in the Hormuz Strait calls for entering into joint project with foreign companies as the best way for Iran to participate in the world economy.

A member of Iran-Belgium Chamber of Commerce, Ali Khalili referred to the good cooperation in Chamber of Commerce over the past 13 years adding, in this period favorable opportunities have been provided to attract foreign investments. (IRNA)