Positive Signal from South Korea to Isfahan’s Economy

TEHRAN (Iran News) The meeting emphasized that South Korea’s advanced experience in digital transformation, combined with Isfahan’s industrial capabilities and cultural heritage, can build a new model of international cooperation. Senior officials and business leaders from both sides described the dialogue as a promising step toward sustainable and strategic economic relations.

Amir Keshani, Chairman of the Isfahan Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the unique features that define Isfahan’s identity. Known for its rich history, artistic excellence, architectural landmarks, and deep-rooted cultural traditions, the city has also developed remarkable economic potential built upon hard work and local ingenuity.

Keshani noted that the long-standing business relationship between Iranian and South Korean companies continues to expand, citing examples such as food products, chemical materials, and steel exported from Isfahan to Korea. In return, Korea supplies paper products and medical equipment to Iranian markets. These exchanges, according to Keshani, reflect a stable foundation for even larger cooperation.

He further emphasized that the high level of participation by Isfahan’s entrepreneurs in the meeting demonstrates a strong practical interest in forming deeper ties. “The Isfahan Chamber of Commerce stands fully prepared to host Korean trade delegations,” he declared. He added that Korean companies should be introduced to Isfahan’s exhibition events, where they can discover a wider array of partnership opportunities in industry, technology, and tourism.

South Korea’s Ambassador to Iran, Kim Jun-Pyo, expressed excitement over his visit to Isfahan, describing the city as a “symbol of Iranian history, culture, and civilization.” He said visiting Isfahan had long been one of his personal wishes, given its prominent role in Iran’s economic development.

The ambassador noted that Isfahan has transformed from a textile hub to a major center for steel, petrochemicals, automotive manufacturing, and knowledge-based industries. He pointed out that both Iran and South Korea have followed similar industrial paths, moving from traditional manufacturing toward advanced technologies.

Kim stated that integrating Isfahan’s manufacturing potential with South Korea’s experience in digital transformation could spark a new wave of globally competitive cooperation. While Korean companies have historically focused on working with Iranian government entities, he noted that greater familiarity and trust will likely encourage collaboration with Iran’s private sector as well.

Mostafa Dolatiar, head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs representative office in Isfahan, stressed that the economic and trade capabilities of Isfahan are far greater than what has been revealed so far. He described the province as strategically positioned to expand its international trade partnerships.

Acknowledging that external political complications have posed challenges to Iran–Korea relations, Dolatiar argued that many untapped opportunities still exist. He affirmed that Iran possesses strong social capital and an economic foundation conducive to sustainable cooperation.

He further emphasized that hands-on introduction to the province’s economic realities is essential for Korean delegations. “Direct familiarity with Isfahan’s potential will lead to the discovery of new opportunities and more extensive planning for future cooperation,” he said. “Isfahan’s Economy”

Dolatiar also highlighted the importance of academic collaboration. With world-class universities located in the province, he encouraged delegations to explore partnerships in science, research, and education. These fields, he said, should be prioritized in future visits to advance joint knowledge-based projects. “Isfahan’s Economy”

The presence of high-ranking business leaders from both Isfahan and South Korea indicates a shared commitment to strengthening diplomatic and commercial ties. With Isfahan’s industrial power and South Korea’s advanced technology capabilities, both parties see opportunities for collaboration in smart manufacturing, digital industries, tourism development, and educational exchange.

The message from the meeting is clear: by combining industrial strength with digital innovation, Isfahan and South Korea can build a new model of cooperation capable of influencing international economic networks — a partnership that blends economic goals with cultural and technological collaboration, signaling a positive outlook for the future of global engagement.