The two countries trade relations have improved since the 2017 blockade

Iran and Qatar could soon utilise one another’s ports after the two countries announced an agreement to improve trade relations.

Doha and Tehran signed a Memorandum of Understanding which would establish trade centres and commerce affiliates as well as joint trade working groups to delve deeper into relations between the two states.

The news was announced at a meeting between representatives of the Qatar-Iran Joint Committee on Economic and Commerce Cooperation in Isfahan, under the chairmanship of Minister of Commerce and Industry, Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari and Iran’s Minister of Energy, Dr. Reza Ardakanian.

The agreement also stipulated cooperation in the field of pharmaceutical needs and medical equipment, higher education and scientific research as well as transit and transport facilities. 

Since the 2017 Gulf Crisis, Iran has been a steadfast partner of Qatar and the trade between the two countries has increased exponentially since the illegal air, land and sea Saudi-led blockade was imposed. 

Read more: Qatari official sees ‘encouraging signs’ in diplomacy to end GCC crisis

Iran opened its airspace and seas to Qatari transportation so they could circumvent the closure of routes. 

This also increased freight between the two countries, with Qatar now importing agricultural products and foodstuffs. Iran began sending Qatar massive shipments of food, pledging 100 tons of food daily until the crisis was resolved.

Cutting all ties with Iran was one of the 13 demands of the blockading quartet to lift the illegal siege. Qatar has rejected the demands citing independent sovereignty.

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