DAMASCUS -- The Islamic Republic of Iran is to take part in the 46th International Trade Fair in Damascus, Iran's Ambassador to Damascus Hussein Sheikholesalm said on Saturday. Over 32 Iranian companies active in industry, agriculture irrigation and foodstuffs sectors are to attend the fair to be held from August 28 till September 7. Speaking to IRNA, he said that the existing friendly political relations between Tehran and Damascus, successful visit of the Iranian president to Syria, signing of agreements on construction of a cement factory and ten silos in Syria by Iran, mutual cooperation in electricity sector, and visits of over 200,000 Iranian pilgrims to Syria have prepared a suitable ground for expansion of economic cooperation between the two sides.

Since the time is ripe for participation of Iranian companies in the Syrian international trade fair, the number of Iranian firms determined to attend this year's exhibition has doubled compared to the previous year, he said. Referring to the banking facilities provided by the two countries for expansion of economic activities of Iranian companies in Syria, he said that the Damascus international trade fair is a good opportunity for all Iranian businessmen to expand economic cooperation with Syria. (IRNA)