According to SHADA, Asgari briefed the WCO Secretary General on the progress of Iran's customs modernization initiatives and its forward-looking [structural] reform roadmap. The presentation was welcomed by Saunders, who confirmed the WCO's readiness to participate in and support the implementation of Iran's modernization program.
Asgari highlighted that IRICA is undertaking a comprehensive institutional transformation to modernize customs operations, strengthening organizational capacity, and aligning its procedures with international best practices. He stressed that capacity building remains a cornerstone of the reform process.
He also expressed Iran's interest in expanding technical cooperation with the WCO, particularly in customs training, human resource development, knowledge exchange, and the deployment of technical experts to support reform initiatives.
Noting that IRICA is preparing for significant structural and procedural reforms, Asgari emphasized the importance of continued support from the WCO Secretariat to ensure the effective implementation of these changes. He said enhanced cooperation would strengthen Iran Customs' institutional capabilities while facilitating greater compliance with WCO standards and international customs practices.
For his part, WCO Secretary General Ian Saunders reaffirmed the organization's support for Iran's customs modernization program and encouraged IRICA to maintain close engagement with the WCO Secretariat and increase its participation in the organization's modernization-related meetings and technical activities.
Saunders underscored that Iran Customs' active involvement in modernization initiatives aimed at trade facilitation and reducing transaction costs would enhance the country's attractiveness to foreign investors by improving the efficiency, transparency, and predictability of customs procedures.