The Vice President briefly spoke about the Moscow Chamber of Commerce and Industry and is the largest business association in the capital, represents the widest segment of Russian enterprises, operating on both the Russian and international markets. He emphasized that the system of the Chambers of Commerce and Industry is the only business association in Russia that has its own legislative base, and a distinct law of Moscow is dedicated to it.
Mr. Vardanyan stressed that the MCCI participates in international activities of the authorities of the Russian capital in its widest aspects.The relations between the Chamber and the Government of Moscow are close and systematic in the related application of international relations. The Chamber also closely cooperates with City departments, responsible for inter-regional relations, representing the interests of the capital's business throughout Russia. The MCCI works with both local administrations and the system of the Chambers of Commerce and Industry.
The Ambassador of the Republic of Tunisia, Mr. Tarak Ben Salem, recalled that trade and political relations with Russia and Tunisia began in the 19th century. At present, there are about ten Russian enterprises in the country, engaged in construction, pharmacology and mechanisation. At present, the Ambassador gathers contacts of Russian companies involved in the automotive industry, which would be interested in developing their business in Tunisia.
The Embassy is interested in Russian businessmen, doing business in the areas of helicopter construction and maritime business (in particular, dam construction). The Ambassador stressed that the Government of the Republic of Tunisia is working on simplifying customs procedures for businesses. In addition, Tunisia, due to its geographical position, could become a "gateway" for Russia to the Central African countries.
A representative of the Tunisian Tourism Office, Mr. Nizhi Gouider, said that Tunisia is visited by more than 600 thousand Russian tourists annually - this can contribute to the development of not only tourist but also cultural relations. Tunisia has about 800 hotels of 4-5 star caliber and that Russian business is a priority for hoteliers.
"We are proud of the fact that Tunisia is one of the five countries most visited by Russian tourists”, said Mr. Gouder. It is noteworthy that Tunisia supports air travel not only with Moscow and St. Petersburg, but also with other Russian cities. Currently, we have a task to make tourism not only a seasonal phenomenon in Tunisia, and Russians can come there all year round. However, the air service with Russia will be opened only in April.
Afterwards, theTrade Attaché, Mr. Naufel Ben Gorbal, introduced Tunisia's economic performance, its exported goods and production capacity.
Summarizing the delegation’s statements, the Ambassador, Mr. Ben Salem, highlighted several themes. Tunisia is interested in developing cultural ties; proposes to organize a videoconference between Russian economists and representatives of the Tunisian Ministry of Trade and Foreign Economic Cooperation; is ready to organize a reception of the Russian delegation. In addition, the Tunisian side is interested in finding a Russian factotum to arrange meetings of business partners on the territory of the Russian Federation.
Mr. Vardanyan added that the MCCI is ready to support the organization of visits to Moscow’s technology parks, which would be interesting for Tunisian businessmen. He praised Tunisia's ability to become Russia's "gateway" to the African continent.
After the meeting, the participants exchanged commemorative gifts.