The President of the Maku Free Zone of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Hossein Garousi, and his delegation were guests of the Rector of Atatürk University, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu, to consider opportunities for academic and commercial collaboration. Mohammad Ebrahimi, the Consul General of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Erzurum, was also present during the visit to the President's Office.

The President of the Maku Free Zone, Hossein Garousi, spoke about the region's potential and the opportunities for cooperation during the meeting. The topics of facilitating and diversifying trade between the two countries were also addressed. Observing that Maku is the largest industrial and commercial free zone in Iran, President Garousi stated, "We are currently engaged in extensive work in sectors including logistics, transit, food security, tourism, textiles, and mining." Businesspeople who are involved in production and commerce will receive 1,820 hectares of land. The construction of our railway connection is currently underway, and our international airport is in active use. Furthermore, we are in the process of constructing the largest walnut and pistachio conservatory in Western Asia. We are committed to fortifying our trade relations with Turkey and bolstering the $30 billion trade objective between the two nations.


President Garousi underscored the strategic significance of Erzurum, which is attributed to its historical connections and geographical location. He stated, "The commencement of direct flights between Erzurum and Tehran or Tabriz will further stimulate trade and tourism." Furthermore, we would be delighted to extend an invitation to you to the trade summit that is scheduled to take place in Tehran next month.

Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hacımüftüoğlu, the rector, conveyed his satisfaction with the visit and emphasized that the establishment of academic and economic cooperation with Iran will be beneficial to the development of both countries. Rector Hacımüftüoğlu stated, "Our historical connections and trade relations with Iran are extensive." Our region will reap substantial benefits by fostering these connections through academic collaboration. Erzurum was historically a hub of commerce as a result of its strategic location along the Silk Road. We are of the opinion that this potential should be reassessed today.

The visit concluded with a discussion of potential measures to enhance the trade and academic ties between the two nations.

20.11.2024 - Corporate Communications Directorate