Isfahan and Armenia: Longtime Partners with New Opportunities

TEHRAN (Iran News) According to the Isfahan Chamber of Commerce’s Public Relations Office, both parties highlighted the importance of utilizing shared historical and cultural values to promote bilateral economic collaboration.

Amir Keshani, President of the Isfahan Chamber, noted that Isfahan has long been a symbol of peaceful coexistence among different faiths. “For centuries, Muslims, Armenians, Jews, and Zoroastrians have lived together in Isfahan without recorded religious conflict,” he said. “The friendly relationship between the people of Isfahan and the Armenian community — as well as the Republic of Armenia — can serve as a strong foundation for expanding cultural and economic partnerships.”

Keshani added that Armenian tourists have increasingly visited Isfahan in recent months, contributing to the city’s cultural vitality and local economy. “The commercial opportunities between Iran and Armenia are exceptional,” he said. “Iranian companies can expand part of their operations in Armenia, benefiting both sides.”

Grigor Hovhannisyan Hakobyan, Armenia’s Ambassador to Iran, expressed his country’s keen interest in strengthening ties with Isfahan, particularly in the fields of energy, infrastructure, and trade. “These understandings will soon be implemented and will lay the groundwork for expanded economic relations between our two nations,” he stated.

The ambassador also pointed to the construction of a second border bridge between Iran and Armenia as a major opportunity. “This project will play an important role in facilitating transportation and increasing trade volume,” Hakobyan said.

He noted that Armenia’s membership in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) provides a favorable platform for Iranian investors seeking to access new regional markets.

Fereshteh Amini, Chair of the Export Development and Import Management Commission of the Isfahan Chamber and a member of its Board of Representatives, highlighted Armenia’s transparent trade environment. “Easy access to accurate market data in Armenia enables Iranian businesses to conduct reliable market research,” she explained.

She added that Armenia’s geographic proximity offers a logistical advantage. “Iranian goods can reach Armenian markets within a few days, reducing warehousing costs and working capital requirements,” Amini said.

Amini also emphasized that Iranian exports to Armenia are exempt from customs duties, encouraging greater trade flow. “With better public awareness and use of existing capacities, achieving substantial bilateral trade between the two countries is entirely within reach,” she concluded.