TEHRAN Sept. 09 (Shana) -- Iran's deputy minister for international affairs and trading has said Tehran regards transfer of expertise and project management as the top priorities in its dealings with foreign firms that are willing to restore their relations with the country after sanctions relief.

Amir-Hossein Zamani-Nia told Shana that project management and knowledge transfer are the key areas Iran has put much emphasis on in its future ties with foreign companies in its oil and gas sector.

"Direct investment is highly favored by Iran's petroleum ministry but before that, Iran's oil industry is in need of technologies and project management," said the official. He said Iran's oil industry is highly attractive for foreign firms and is expected to generate capital for the country.

Zamani-Nia's statements came after weeks of busy work receiving high-level delegations from Spain, Austria, Mexico, Britain, South Korea, Germany and South Africa, who had made the trek to Iran to hunt out investment opportunities after the removal of western sanctions on the country.

"Executives accompanying the delegations have indicated their seriousness to restore ties with Iran and secure themselves a firm foothold in its lucrative market," he said, adding they also aim at regional markets through Iran.

Unfreezing Iran's oil money as well as bolstering cooperation between top Iranian and foreign companies are the main topics usually discussed during the meetings of foreign delegations with Iranian officials.

By SHANA