Austrian envoy calls for the development of cooperation with Kish

Kish, May 8, IRNA -- Austrian Ambassador to Iran calls for the development of tourism, scientific, economic and cultural cooperation between his country and Kish Island. 'Kish Island has valuable capabilities for investment,' said Stefan Scholz on Tuesday night in a meeting with Gholam Hossein Mozaffari chairman and chief executive officer of Kish Free Zone Organization. The Austrian ambassador said that he was pleased with the visit to Kish Island and thanked the hospitality of the officials of the Kish Free Trade Zone. 'Austria and Iran are the two cultural powers in the world,' he said, adding: 'Clean energy and renewable energy are part of the Austrian economy and a major part of Green Eco-Investments as well.' 'In Kish island, implementation of some environmental projects is important as a model for other cities in Iran and the region,' added Stefan Scholz. He emphasized the need for expanding the cooperation in ecotourism, saying that in this context, Austria has a strategic role and there is another partnership between two countries, such as the Vienna High School of Tourism and the Institute in Tehran is taking shape jointly by the two countries. Mozaffari said in the meeting said that Kish Island is an ideal destination for tourists, especially in the tourism sector of Halal and Health Tourism. 'Kish is an environment-friendly island, it is interested in taking advantage of the Austrian experience in the field of environmental protection, in particular the recycling sector,' he added. He hailed Austrian economic activity as positive and worthwhile, adding: 'Apart from economic issues, Austria has a special place for us as a cultural country, and we are keen to have extensive cooperation with Austria in organizing exhibitions and cultural events.' Kish Island is one of the most attractive tourism sites in the Persian Gulf, southern Iran, and a pioneer in tourism industry of Iran. It is also among the top tourist destinations for planning and investment. It is part of the Bandar Lengeh City in Hormuzgan province of Iran. Owing to its free trade zone status, the island is touted as a paradise for tourists, with numerous malls, shopping centers, tourist attractions, beaches, and resort hotels as well as a wonderful climate. With about 26,000 residents, the island attracts nearly 1 million visitors each year. Follow us on Twitter @IrnaEnglish