Paris, Tehran determined to expand ties: top French official

Bartolone who is in the ancient city of Isfahan, central Iran, made the remarks in a meeting on Wednesday evening with Governor General of this province Rasoul Zargarpour.

Referring to the historical visit of the Iranian President Hassan Rouhani to Paris in January and the recent visits of the French ministers to Tehran, Bartolone said there are many grounds in which the two countries can promote cooperation.

Touching upon the landmark nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), Bartolone said the deal can help Iran improve the situation of the country's production through foreign investment.

As for his travel to Isfahan, he said the rich cultural heritage and civilization of the city made him to visit Isfahan.

For his part, Isfahan's governor general said grounds are prepared now for naming Isfahan as the sister city of one of the French cities as the ancient Iranian city is presently twin city with 14 other cities of the world.

Zargarpour also called for launching of direct flights between Isfahan and France noting that direct flights can pave the way for further bilateral cooperation between the two countries particularly in exchange of tourists.

France's Bartolone arrived in Tehran in September 5. He travelled to Isfahan on September 7 and will leave here for Paris on Friday.

The French official's visit took place at the invitation of Majlis Speaker Ali Larijani.

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