TEHRAN July 27 (Shana)--Iranian petroleum officials have held talks with more than 30 European firms on the sidelines of a business conference in Vienna, a deputy petroleum minister said.

Amir-Hossein Zamani-Nia, deputy minister for international affairs and trading, said Iran has set a number of conditions for the presence of foreigners in its petroleum sector which include engaging in Iranian firms in petroleum projects as well as transporting technical savvy to Iran.

Besides, the presence of foreigners must bring Iran economic profits, stressed Zamani-Nia.

Following Iran's deal with the P5+1, European companies have lined up to step in Iran's oil industry, said the top official.
He further added that Iran's petroleum industry has dramatically developed during the past 12 years that the country was targeted by western sanctions for its nuclear program.

Employing the capabilities of the private sector manufacturers and services companies in Iran is seriously sought by the petroleum ministry in the future partnerships with foreign firms as well, he added.

By SHANA