Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi arrived in Iran on Tuesday for a two-day trip that made him the first major leader to visit since the lifting of international sanctions against Tehran. 


Heading a 250-member political and economic delegation, Renzi was warmly welcomed by Iranian Minister of Mine, Industries and Trade Mohammad-Reza Nematzadeh, IRNA reported. 


While in Iran, Renzi is scheduled to hold talks with President Hassan Rouhani and several high-ranking Iranians officials. 


The ways for fostering economic and trade cooperation during post-sanctions era and active presence of Italian investors and companies in Iran are among the issues to be discussed during the meetings. 


Italy has led the way among Western countries in re-establishing economic ties to Iran following the lifting of international sanctions. 


Renzi’s trip follows Iranian President Hassan Rouhani’s visit to Italy and France at the end of January a trip which resulted in a string of major trade and investment deals being signed between Tehran and the two European countries. 


Contracts worth an estimated 17 billion euros (US$18 billion) were signed in Rome and Rouhani said he hoped that would represent only a start, as he pitched Iran as a safe base for investors looking to get into a regional market of 300 million consumers

Source: NNA