Libya stress closer trade ties to Iran

Head of Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Mines (ICCIM) Ali Naqi Khamoushi said Sunday that private sector activity does not have any political ramifications so political discussions between governments should not hinder private sector cooperation. Khamoushi told the visiting Libyan Heads of Union of Chambers of Commerce Sulayman Al-Barouni that generally severing trade ties should be the last resort when two countries break off diplomatic relations, IRNA reported.

The Libyan official was qouted as saying that the two countries chambers of commerce can expand bilateral trade ties. He said that following the establishment of sea transportation links between the two countries, ''Flights between Tehran and Tripoli are to be established in the near future.''

"Referring to the success of the last week's Iranian delegation's visit to Tripoli, he said the joint statements on expansion of private sector cooperation which was recently signed and the agreement between the two countries traders heralds a bright future in bilateral ties," IRNA reported.