MNA� Swiss President Alain Berset said Tue. that his country wishes to continue financial transactions with Iran, at least for essential products, given the current obstacles hindering the two countries� trade ties.

Switzerland�s President Alain Berset made the remarks in a joint trade forum with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani held in Bern on Tuesday, adding �there is potential to expand cooperation with Iran in the fields of pharmaceuticals and foodstuff.�

He went on to highlight the importance of Iran-Switzerland�s roadmap of cooperation in terms of scientific and research interactions, as well as economic relations, due to the European country�s lack of access to sea and shortage of natural resources.

President Berset said Switzerland is happy to see Iran�s vast investment in science and research, adding �publication of scientific papers, particularly in technical fields, has had a remarkable increase, which demands further interaction between the researchers and universities of the two countries.�

He also noted that a number of agreements and declarations of intent will be signed in the areas of science, road transport and healthcare.

�Iran and Switzerland�s relations are based on solid foundations and have withstood many hardships,� he said, adding �given the process of globalization and economic and political changes, holding dialogs will be in the interest of all.�