“Negotiations continue between Iranian and foreign parties to sign contracts for the transfer of technology that would enable Iranian manufacturers to locally produce equipment for oil, gas and petrochemical industries.”

“I welcome President Mohammad Khatami’s reform efforts. Also, Japan expresses support for measures taken by Iran to achieve domestic reform and improved ties with the international community.”

“My visit to Iran and President Khatami’s visits to European states indicate that there has been progress in Iran-EU relations and I hope these relations will even improve further. A golden opportunity now at hand should be utilized to cement ties between the two countries.”

“We should find mechanisms to attract investments of Iranians living abroad before we aim to attract foreign investment. These people like to invest part of their savings in their home country.”

“Can’t we all just get along? I trust the people. I must be doing something right.”

“We are trusted by the nation and our relationship with the nation is based on ‘being grateful to them’. There is a close relation between the Culture Ministry and the International Center for Dialogue among Civilizations.”

“We should no longer limit ourselves to local operations. An aggressive international marketing must be on agenda to help our transport industry and transit economy through the globalization process.”

“Iranian steel has demands in most industrial countries due to its fine quality. For production of each ton of steel in 1996, Iran had to spend $100 on raw materials while this cost dropped to $45 last year.”