VP: Lake Urmiyeh focal point for development

Urmiyeh, W. Azarbaijan province, Nov 15, IRNA – First Vice-President Eshaq Jahangiri said the government of 'prudence and hope' has taken into consideration revival of Lake Urmiyeh as a national concern, adding that the lake should remain in place as it can be a focal point for the development of the province and even the country. He told reporters at Urmiyeh airport upon arrival here for a one-day visit that West Azarbaijan is one of the key provinces in the country as it has joint borders with Iraq, Turkey, Armenia and Nakhchivan. He further remarked that this has provided a golden opportunity for the country as major parts of the exchanges are made through West Azarbaijan province and thus it can be a major axis for development and trade of the province. He told reporters that during his visit he will have meetings with provincial officials to discuss problems related to agriculture, Lake Urmiyeh and provincial affairs. The first vice-president will also pay a visit to Piranshahr where he will inspect Tamarchin border and receive reports on the problems of Tamarchin terminal. He will then have an air inspection of Lake Urmiyeh and will be informed of environmental issues of its surrounding area. Ministers of Agriculture Jihad; Industry, Mines and Trade; presidential advisor and secretary of Free Trade Zones Coordination Council are accompanying Jahangiri in his visit./end