YEREVAN. – Hayots Ashkharh newspaper spoke with economist Gagik Makaryan, Chairman of the Republican Union of Employers of Armenia.

“The creation of a free trade zone [with Iran] can make [Armenia’s] trade relations with Iran reach a new, higher level (…). That is, we can become not only economic, but also political and diplomatic partners with Iran.

“It [free trade zone] will be beneficial in terms of the development of Armenia’s economic competitiveness. Armenia will become more appealing for some European countries, major international investors, as well as it will serve as a bridge between Europe and the Customs Union.

“The creation of this zone will enable Iran to use Armenia to enter the Customs Union, or European countries, integrate into their markets. And by founding productions in the territory of Armenia, Iran will be able to much more quickly master the rules of global business, since Armenia is already in this process,” Makaryan specifically said with respect to the Hayots Ashkharh newspaper’s query on the prospects for the creation of a free trade zone between Armenia and Iran.