TEHRAN –Iran’s First Vice President, Mohammad Reza Aref, has arrived in Armenia to participate in the third edition of the Eurasian Economic Forum, as well as a meeting of the Eurasian Intergovernmental Council.

Aref is leading a high-level delegation to Yerevan, following an official invitation from Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. Armenia currently holds the rotating presidency of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).

The forum, which takes place on September 30 and October 1, marks a significant milestone as it coincides with the 10th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty on the Eurasian Economic Union. The event brings together the heads of state and government from EAEU member countries and observers, with a focus on fostering economic cooperation and regional development.

During the forum, Aref is expected to deliver a keynote address, where he will outline Iran's perspectives on regional economic integration and cooperation. The Iranian vice president will also hold bilateral meetings with several foreign leaders, including prime ministers from EAEU member nations, to discuss enhancing economic and political ties.

The central theme of this year’s forum is "10 Years of the EAEU: Prospects and Priorities," according to Kazinform News Agency. Discussions are set to cover a wide array of topics, including technological and economic cooperation among EAEU countries, digital transformation, the development of transport infrastructure, the quality of domestic markets, and entrepreneurship support. In addition, international cooperation and the EAEU’s long-term strategic development will be a key focus of the meetings.

Iran, which has been actively seeking to expand its presence in the region, will participate in a series of side events aimed at strengthening ties between the EAEU and Iranian industries. These events will involve representatives from Iran's business community, public sector, industrial firms, and transport and logistics companies. A special focus will be placed on deepening technological and economic collaboration between Iran and the EAEU member states.

Among the key activities planned is a business dialogue between the EAEU and Iran, where representatives will explore opportunities for increased trade and investment. Additionally, several roundtable discussions will take place, focusing on promoting trade and investment between the EAEU and Iran, as well as opportunities for collaboration in key sectors such as industry, transport, logistics, and agriculture.