TEHRAN (Iran News) The call was made during the 17th Joint Economic Cooperation Commission meeting held in Baku, where representatives of the private sector and trade promotion institutions from both countries discussed practical mechanisms to enhance economic engagement. The meeting was attended by Niloufar Asadi, Director General for Asia-Pacific Affairs and representative of the Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture, and Gunel Sheikhmammadov, Director of International Affairs at the Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Agency (AZPROMO).

The discussions focused on identifying operational solutions to expand private sector cooperation, evaluating trade and investment opportunities, and addressing existing commercial challenges between the two neighboring countries. Participants agreed that strengthening business-to-business communication would play a key role in improving mutual market understanding.

As part of the dialogue, Asadi highlighted the institutional role of the Iran Chamber of Commerce as a representative and advisory body for the private sector. She noted that the chamber currently supports approximately 80,000 member companies, along with 34 provincial chambers, 40 joint chambers, and 280 trade associations. According to her, the chamber is actively working to help Iranian businesses enter global markets, with special emphasis on opportunities in Azerbaijan, including participation in international exhibitions and commercial events.

The Iranian side proposed the establishment of practical communication mechanisms between economic actors of the two countries. Suggestions included organizing specialized webinars and bilateral B2B meetings in strategic sectors such as agriculture, construction, and energy. Officials believe such direct interactions would help businesses from both countries better understand market requirements, investment conditions, and partnership opportunities.

The proposal was welcomed by Sheikhmammadov, who agreed that joint planning for these events could help remove informational barriers and facilitate market entry for companies on both sides. Both parties stressed the importance of continuous dialogue to support long-term economic cooperation.

Iranian representatives also emphasized the need to accelerate legal and governmental procedures related to trade facilitation and transit development. The completion and signing of the preferential trade agreement was identified as a top priority. Asadi stated that the private sector requires governmental support through such agreements to improve market access conditions.

She further called for coordinated pressure from commercial institutions on respective governments to finalize ongoing negotiations. She argued that lowering tariff barriers would significantly increase bilateral trade volume and improve economic interaction.

In response, Sheikhmammadov confirmed that efforts are underway to accelerate negotiation processes and finalize the strategic agreement. He said that reducing customs tariffs is expected to contribute to expanding the flow of goods between the two countries.

Another key topic discussed was investment cooperation. The Iranian representative announced that the Iran Chamber of Commerce is prepared to distribute information regarding Azerbaijani investment projects among Iranian member companies. This would allow Iranian firms to conduct feasibility studies and explore participation in project management and investment opportunities.

Sheikhmammadov welcomed the proposal and encouraged the introduction of Iranian companies interested in joint investment projects. He added that Azerbaijani partners are ready to provide detailed information about project requirements and investment conditions.

At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides agreed that official correspondence and follow-up communications should be conducted through the international affairs department of the Iran Chamber of Commerce and the relevant Azerbaijani institutions. This arrangement is expected to streamline administrative procedures and accelerate implementation of agreed initiatives.

Officials from both countries reaffirmed that strong political and economic will exists to expand bilateral relations. They emphasized that prioritizing the preferential trade agreement and joint investment cooperation could open a new chapter in economic relations between Tehran and Baku, supporting regional trade integration and long-term development partnerships.

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TEHRAN (Iran News) The meeting takes place on the eve of the anniversary of a historic uprising by the people of Tabriz on 29 Bahman 1356 of the Iranian calendar year, or 18 February 1978, before the victory of the Islamic Revolution.

The Leader made important remarks during the meeting, which will be included in the update on the story.

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TEHRAN (Iran News) A joint border meeting was held on Tuesday between senior customs officials of Iran and Azerbaijan at the Astara–Astara border bridge. The meeting was attended by the Deputy Head of the State Customs Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Director of Azerbaijan’s Astara Customs, and their accompanying delegation. On the Iranian side, participants included the Director General of Astara Customs, the Director General of the Transit and International Transport Office of Iran’s Road Maintenance and Transportation Organization, and the Director General of Road Maintenance for Gilan Province.

During the meeting, the two sides agreed that, on average, between 350 and 370 trucks would be allowed to exit daily through the combined capacity of the old and new Astara border crossings. This measure is expected to significantly ease congestion, particularly during peak export periods.

Earlier the same day, a coordination meeting was held in Astara to discuss the operational launch of the new border terminal specifically for the exit of refrigerated export trucks. The meeting was attended by Nader Ansarian, Director General of Astara Customs; Javad Hedayati, Director General of the Transit and International Transport Office of the Road Maintenance and Transportation Organization; Ali Darmani, Governor of Astara County; and Fariborz Moradi, Director General of Road Maintenance for Gilan Province.

Explaining the outcomes of the meeting, Ansarian said discussions focused on facilitating the direct exit of refrigerated export trucks through the new Astara border crossing. He noted that it was agreed these trucks, after completing all required customs formalities, would be allowed to leave the country directly via the new terminal rather than passing through the old customs area.

“This decision will significantly speed up the exit process for refrigerated export trucks,” Ansarian said. “It will also help reduce traffic congestion inside the old customs compound and shorten truck queues in the border hinterland.”

He added that, based on negotiations conducted during the joint border meeting with the Azerbaijani side, an agreement was reached to accept a maximum of 120 to 140 refrigerated export trucks per day through the new border crossing. As part of the initial implementation phase, 40 trucks exited on a trial basis on Monday night.

Ansarian said this pilot process will continue and gradually scale up until the agreed daily capacity with the Azerbaijani authorities is fully reached. He emphasized that the move represents an important step toward improving border management, facilitating trade flows, and supporting exporters—particularly those transporting perishable goods that require timely cross-border movement.

Officials on both sides expressed hope that the new arrangements would not only ease congestion at the Astara border but also enhance bilateral trade efficiency and strengthen transit cooperation between Iran and Azerbaijan in the long term.

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TEHRAN (Iran News) Speaking to IRNA on the sidelines of the first trilateral meeting aimed at facilitating transit between Iran, Azerbaijan, and Russia, Ebrahim Naqdi said: “Following earlier meetings with Russia and Azerbaijan regarding expanding trade volume and pursuing the memorandum of understanding signed in 2022 and another agreement signed in October 2025, we concluded that the three countries need to examine practical obstacles more closely.”

Naqdi emphasized that the meeting addressed technical and expert-level issues hindering trade and transit among the three countries, and explored ways to boost trade, increase truck flow, and facilitate transit.

He stated that Iran’s demand for increased transit and movement of goods was clearly communicated, noting that with existing infrastructure, the volume of freight movement and transit could double.

According to Naqdi, Iran’s customs — especially at the Astara border crossing — has the capacity for greater volumes of transit and cargo movement. It was agreed that existing challenges will be studied further and obstacles removed.

He stressed that Azerbaijan, as a neighboring and friendly country, needs to increase its capacity for processing and accepting transit trucks. He expressed hope that the issues raised would be resolved soon and that trade volumes would grow.

Naqdi said the meeting reviewed key trade issues, current border challenges, and ways to expand the capacity for cargo-carrying fleets. “We clearly stated that the current level of trade among the three countries is far below its true potential.”

He noted that existing infrastructure can support at least double the current trade volume: “At present, around 250 trucks enter and 250 trucks exit daily at the Astara border crossing. At Bileh-Savar, 200–250 trucks enter or leave daily. These numbers do not match the level of commercial relations or the economic needs of the three countries and must be increased.”

Naqdi stressed the need to reduce truck waiting times at the borders, simplify the acceptance process for transport fleets, and expand Azerbaijan’s customs capacity. “During today’s field visit, we showed Azerbaijani and Russian customs officials the bottlenecks and issues. They also promised to ease the processes for accepting cargo and trucks.”

He highlighted the importance of perishable goods, especially agricultural products, noting that the three countries have agreed to standardize, simplify, and facilitate procedures for the rapid movement of such goods, while maintaining necessary controls.

Referring to earlier negotiations, Naqdi said that during the October 2025 Baku meeting, a document was signed between the deputy customs chiefs of Iran, Russia, and Azerbaijan to examine trilateral issues through a joint working committee—today’s meeting being the first step in implementing that agreement.

He added: “Iran’s Customs took the initiative to host the first working committee meeting with coordination from the Foreign Ministry and other agencies. We believe that many border issues related to truck acceptance and unnecessary delays will be resolved in the near future.”

Naqdi concluded that the customs administrations of the three countries are determined to significantly increase trade volume through continuous follow-up, active customs diplomacy, and trilateral cooperation.

Sadegh Barzegar, Director-General of Gilan Province Customs, told reporters that representatives from the three countries discussed ways to expand customs cooperation, ease truck movements, and accelerate the transit of goods.

He reported that approximately 300 trucks are currently stationed inside the Astara customs compound, while about 650 trucks are waiting in terminals outside the compound to depart toward Azerbaijan and Russia.

Barzegar added that the Azerbaijani delegation agreed to simplify truck passage and speed up cargo clearance to prevent long delays and potential financial losses for traders, especially in the case of perishable and agricultural goods.

Citing yesterday’s traffic statistics, he said: “During this period, 250 outbound trucks headed to Azerbaijan, while 280 inbound trucks arrived from that country. The goal of the trilateral cooperation is to achieve a balanced and efficient level of border traffic and further facilitate commercial exchanges.”

Barzegar stressed that establishing a shared customs framework among the three countries can strengthen regional economic and transit cooperation, and noted that Gilan Province will play a significant role in achieving this objective.

At the close of the meeting, the participants emphasized strengthening technical and operational cooperation and agreed to continue holding joint meetings in the near future.

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TEHRAN (Iran News) In a statement responding to a message issued by the US Embassy in Baku, where Washington emphasized the contribution of its donated specialized equipment to the discovery of a drug shipment on a transit route, the Iranian Embassy said that “combating drug trafficking is a collective, continuous and complex responsibility, and any promotional operation by highlighting specific equipment cannot cover the realities on the ground.”

The embassy said that the role of the American side in the unprecedented increase of drug production and trafficking in Afghanistan is significant.

Official international reports show that during “more than two decades of the occupation of Afghanistan by the US and its allies, the level of drug cultivation and the volume of its trafficking multiplied,” it said.

The statement added that Iran has long been on the front line of anti-narcotics efforts, bearing “the heaviest human and financial costs” despite equipment and technical constraints caused by “illegal and unjust sanctions.”

The embassy said recent talks during the visit of Iran’s anti-narcotics police chief to Azerbaijan marked a milestone in strengthening bilateral cooperation.

The embassy said that the role of the American side in the unprecedented increase of drug production and trafficking in Afghanistan is significant.

Official international reports show that during “more than two decades of the occupation of Afghanistan by the US and its allies, the level of drug cultivation and the volume of its trafficking multiplied,” it said.

The statement added that Iran has long been on the front line of anti-narcotics efforts, bearing “the heaviest human and financial costs” despite equipment and technical constraints caused by “illegal and unjust sanctions.”

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TEHRAN (Iran News) In a meeting between Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Representative of Azerbaijan’s President on Special Assignments Khalaf Khalafov, both sides underscored the importance of enhancing bilateral relations between the neighboring countries.

During the meeting in Tehran on Monday, Araghchi emphasized Iran’s commitment to developing comprehensive ties with Azerbaijan, aiming to eliminate any obstacles hindering this progress. He highlighted the strategic importance of peace and stability in the South Caucasus for both Iran and the broader region.

Araghchi reiterated Iran’s principled stance on respecting territorial integrity and national sovereignty, advocating for diplomatic solutions to resolve disputes. He expressed hope that the peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan would lead to lasting security in the area.

Khalafov described his discussions with Iranian officials as positive and constructive, noting the successful visit of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Baku.

He reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s serious intention to deepen cooperation with Iran across various sectors.

Khalafov pointed out the significance of convening joint economic commissions and political consultations, particularly focusing on collaborative projects in transportation, electricity, and infrastructure.

During the meeting in Tehran on Monday, Araghchi emphasized Iran’s commitment to developing comprehensive ties with Azerbaijan, aiming to eliminate any obstacles hindering this progress. He highlighted the strategic importance of peace and stability in the South Caucasus for both Iran and the broader region.

Araghchi reiterated Iran’s principled stance on respecting territorial integrity and national sovereignty, advocating for diplomatic solutions to resolve disputes. He expressed hope that the peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan would lead to lasting security in the area.

Khalafov described his discussions with Iranian officials as positive and constructive, noting the successful visit of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Baku.

He reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s serious intention to deepen cooperation with Iran across various sectors.

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TEHRAN (Iran News) According to the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (ICT), Alireza Darvishi said that the protocol was signed following a bilateral meeting between the two countries. The agreement updates previous arrangements to address frequency interference and signal spillover along the Iran–Azerbaijan border.

Darvishi explained that, after reviewing the results of drive tests conducted in the border areas, both countries committed to taking corrective action within three months to eliminate signal interference and cross-border frequency overlaps.

He added that one of the main provisions of the new protocol involves developing technical criteria for assessing frequency interference and signal spillover in the newly allocated frequency bands. These standards were established with the participation of mobile network operators from both Iran and Azerbaijan, allowing both sides to minimize disruptions and ensure better coordination.

Describing the new criteria, Darvishi noted: “In some technologies, frequency coordination is based on frequency division, while in others it depends on signal strength thresholds at border points. By measuring these indicators in border regions, both sides can verify compliance with the agreed technical standards.”

Darvishi pointed out that the previous frequency coordination protocol dated back to 2016, and that with the evolution of communication technologies — particularly the rollout of 5G mobile networks — it became necessary to revise and modernize the agreement.

“Under the new protocol, all future frequency monitoring and evaluations in border areas will be conducted according to the updated standards. Both parties are now obligated to resolve interference and signal spillover based on this new framework,” he said.

He further noted that the three-day meeting was held in line with regional broadcasting treaties and followed up on agreements reached earlier this year in Baku. The talks also aimed to ensure that radio and television broadcasting in border areas remains free from interference while providing sufficient frequency spectrum for both Iran and Azerbaijan.

The three-day frequency coordination meeting was attended by deputy ministers and senior officials from Iran’s CRA, representatives of Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Digital Development and Transport, spectrum management authorities, and delegates from IRIB (Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting) and mobile network operators from both countries.

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TEHRAN (Iran News) According to a report from the Ministry of Roads and Urban Development, Farzaneh Sadegh, who traveled to Baku early Monday (October 13), addressed reporters following a series of trilateral and bilateral meetings with Azerbaijani and Russian officials. “This was a highly impactful meeting,” Sadegh said. “We had long sought to convene such a session, and the resolutions and commitments made will have lasting effects.”

Sadegh described the formulation of a roadmap toward the 15 million-ton transit target as the meeting’s most significant achievement, emphasizing that the goal is “certainly attainable.” She added, “With this roadmap in place, existing challenges will be addressed and resolved.”

The minister underscored the central role of the Rasht–Astara railway as the final missing link in the International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a strategic route connecting India, Iran, and Russia through the Caspian region.

“The connection between Rasht and Astara is the last segment needed to complete the North–South Corridor,” she stated. “Land acquisition for the remaining sections will be finalized by year’s end, and we expect to see significant physical progress over the next three years.”

Sadegh noted that representatives from the customs authorities of all three countries also participated in the meeting. She said that streamlining customs processes and facilitating the movement of trucks across all shared borders were key agenda items, gaining strong endorsement both in trilateral discussions and separate bilateral talks.

During her bilateral meeting with Alexei Overchuk, Deputy Prime Minister of Russia, Sadegh highlighted the expanding cooperation between Iran and Russia in transportation and transit, pointing to joint projects such as the Rasht–Astara railway as tangible examples of progress since the signing of the strategic cooperation agreement earlier this year.

Sadegh described the current status of bilateral relations as “positive and promising,” citing growing coordination across multiple sectors. She also referred to last month’s meeting between the Presidents of Iran and Russia on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in China, noting that both leaders had supported holding the trilateral summit with Azerbaijan.

She further expressed Iran’s appreciation for Russia’s support at the United Nations, particularly regarding Moscow’s stance against the reimposition of illegal sanctions on Iran.

According to the minister, transport and transit cooperation between Iran and Russia has gained new prominence following the signing of their strategic partnership agreement. She reaffirmed both countries’ strong commitment to advancing joint infrastructure projects such as the Rasht–Astara rail line, describing it as a “symbol of strategic determination.”

Detailed reports on the progress of the railway project were also presented during the meeting, with both sides agreeing to finalize the executive contract and address existing challenges as a priority.

On the sidelines of the summit, Iran and Azerbaijan reached an agreement to organize and streamline freight transport across their shared border via both rail and road.

During her visit to Baku, Minister Sadegh — who also heads the Iran–Azerbaijan Joint Economic Cooperation Commission — held talks with Shahin Mustafayev, Deputy Prime Minister of Azerbaijan.

The two officials reviewed the progress of joint transport and transit projects, reaffirming their commitment to enhance cooperation in the sector. As part of the visit, the Iranian, Azerbaijani, and Russian delegations also toured joint infrastructure projects in Astara, including the border terminal, railway, and related engineering structures.

Both sides emphasized the need for continued coordination in cross-border logistics, with on-site evaluations of facilities to ensure efficient cargo movement.

Minister Sadegh concluded that the progress of joint infrastructure initiatives demonstrates the firm determination of Iran and Azerbaijan to advance shared strategic objectives, reinforcing regional connectivity and economic integration.

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TEHRAN (Iran News) According to the Urmia Chamber of Commerce’s public relations office, Karimi emphasized the province’s strategic geo-economic position, noting its status as a major agricultural and food processing hub with high export potential.

“This province is one of Iran’s key centers for agricultural production and food industries, with a capacity of nearly 7 million tons of goods such as apples, grapes, nuts, dairy, and livestock products that can find a strong market in Bangladesh,” Karimi stated.

He proposed that West Azerbaijan could serve as a new logistics and export corridor for Bangladeshi products headed toward Eastern Europe, Eurasia, and the Caucasus, leveraging its transport infrastructure.

“Given the challenges facing traditional export markets, South Asian countries—particularly Bangladesh—offer new opportunities to expand Iran’s non-oil exports,” Karimi added. “We are ready to facilitate this path with the support of the Bangladeshi embassy and the involvement of both countries’ private sectors.”

Karimi also highlighted the province’s industrial capabilities in small and medium enterprises, construction materials, herbal medicines, petrochemicals, and ornamental and construction stones. He called for a formal cooperation agreement between the Urmia Chamber of Commerce and its counterpart in Bangladesh, proposing joint trade sessions, specialized exhibitions, and business delegation visits.

“We are fully prepared to act as a bridge between the private sectors of our two nations and to mobilize all our resources for this cause,” he concluded.

Ambassador Chowdhury echoed Karimi’s views, describing West Azerbaijan as a key region for economic collaboration, re-export opportunities, and joint production ventures.

He acknowledged the province’s progress and high potential, especially in agriculture, including apple and raisin production, as a basis for expanding trade with Bangladesh.

Chowdhury also suggested using Bangladeshi ports for the re-export of Iranian goods and proposed joint ventures in the textile industry. “West Azerbaijan’s position as a gateway to European markets can be pivotal,” he said.

He highlighted the Maku Free Trade Zone—home to the largest such zone in Iran—as an attractive hub for joint industrial, commercial, and logistical projects, particularly in textiles, pharmaceuticals, and food industries.

“With Bangladesh’s access to large regional populations, we can expand exports from West Azerbaijan to Asian and African markets,” Chowdhury noted.

He also mentioned medical tourism as a promising field of cooperation, stating, “Iran has great potential to attract Bangladeshi medical tourists, and its industrial capabilities and self-sufficiency offer a strong foundation for bilateral industrial projects.”

Both parties concluded the meeting with a mutual commitment to strengthening private sector ties and organizing future joint business meetings.

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TEHRAN (Iran News) Speaking at the Iran-Azerbaijan Business Forum in Baku — an event attended by the presidents of both nations — Samad Hassanzadeh, President of Iran’s Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines, and Agriculture, expressed confidence in the future of the partnership.

Hassanzadeh noted that while bilateral trade stood at around $900 million in 2024, efforts are underway to substantially increase this figure. Leading a senior Iranian trade delegation composed of private sector leaders and top executives from multiple industries, he emphasized that the forum represents a pivotal step toward deepening fraternal relations and expanding economic cooperation.

“With our strong historical, cultural, and religious bonds — and a 765-kilometer shared border — Iran and Azerbaijan have immense capacity to enhance their economic ties,” Hassanzadeh said.

Hassanzadeh highlighted the strategic role of completing the Rasht–Astara railway, the missing link in the International North-South Transport Corridor. The project is expected to reduce transit times between Asia and Europe and strengthen both countries’ positions in global logistics networks. Development of the Astara and Anzali ports was also emphasized as crucial for improving regional connectivity.

Recent trilateral gas swap agreements between Iran, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan have created new opportunities in the energy sector. Both sides are exploring joint investments in energy transmission infrastructure and power generation projects along their border regions, he added.

He also proposed partnerships in smart agriculture technologies, including greenhouse farming, advanced irrigation systems, and the export of processed agricultural goods to satisfy Azerbaijan’s increasing demand.

With reconstruction efforts underway in Azerbaijani territories, Iranian firms are positioned to contribute expertise in infrastructure development — including road construction, dam building, electrification, and the establishment of schools and hospitals, Hassanzadeh noted.

Construction and Engineering Services:

Iran’s longstanding experience in engineering and construction offers valuable support for Azerbaijan’s infrastructure expansion plans. Hassanzadeh proposed organizing technical meetings between private sector representatives from both countries to explore joint ventures.

Both nations’ emphasis on digital transformation opens avenues for collaboration in IT services, e-commerce, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure development.

He went on to say shared cultural heritage, simplified visa regulations, and health tourism initiatives present promising areas for cooperation. Plans for joint Iran-Azerbaijan tour packages aimed at attracting tourists from third countries are also under discussion.

To facilitate the envisioned growth, Hassanzadeh stressed the importance of: Streamlining visa procedures for business professionals; Expanding economic representative offices; Removing banking and financial obstacles; Enhancing logistics and customs processes; and Negotiating a free trade or preferential trade agreement to lower tariffs.

The Iran Chamber of Commerce, alongside the Iran-Azerbaijan Joint Chamber, stands ready to support these initiatives by organizing trade missions and hosting specialized exhibitions.

In closing, Hassanzadeh expressed optimism that the forum would usher in a new era of industrial, economic, and investment cooperation — ultimately driving a major expansion in trade between Iran and Azerbaijan.

Meanwhile Yusif Aliyev, Executive Director of Azerbaijan’s Trade and Investment Development Office, said trade relations between Iran and Azerbaijan have witnessed significant growth, with a reported 18% increase in the first three months of 2025 compared to the same period last year.

Speaking at a business forum during an Iranian trade delegation’s visit to Azerbaijan, Aliyev highlighted the dynamic role Iranian businesses play in Azerbaijan’s economy. “Over 1,739 Iranian companies have invested in Azerbaijan, totaling approximately $5.2 million,” he said. He added that numerous joint projects are currently under review and implementation.

Aliyev emphasized the importance of high-level political engagement, stating that the presence of the two countries’ presidents at recent meetings has been a turning point in strengthening bilateral ties. “Islamic unity serves as a solid foundation for achieving shared goals and enhancing economic cooperation,” he noted. Increased government-level contacts have also played a key role in advancing relations.

Reflecting on the 16th meeting of the Iran-Azerbaijan Joint Commission, Aliyev said discussions covered investment across various sectors. He expressed optimism that with the positive investment experiences already established, conditions for broader cooperation would continue to improve.

In the first quarter of 2025, trade between the two nations reached approximately $157 million. Aliyev pointed out that the Azerbaijani Investment Promotion Agency has streamlined business operations by introducing a one-stop-shop model, offering incentives and tax exemptions to encourage investment and trade.

Welcoming the signing of preferential and free trade agreements between Iran and Azerbaijan, Aliyev revealed that Iranian businesses have identified and entered 91 new projects in Azerbaijan.

He also stressed the cultural dimension of economic relations, citing carpet weaving as an important symbol of unity between the two nations. An international carpet festival is scheduled to take place in Baku at the end of this week, further showcasing the deep-rooted cultural ties.

Aliyev concluded by noting that today’s business forum serves as a vital platform for deepening economic partnerships and paving the way for stronger bilateral relations.

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