Iranian President's Chief of Staff Mohammad Nahavandian called on Japanese firms and companies to invest in Iran's lucrative market and economy. "Japanese activists and companies can take part in our country's markets in energy, mining, transportation, petrochemical and tourism sectors," Nahavandian said in a meeting with Head of Japanese Foreign Trade Organization Hiroyuki Ishige. "The Islamic Republic of Iran is willing to develop its relations with all countries based on mutual respect and friendship," the official added. Diplomatic relations between Iran and Japan were formally established in 1926 and throughout history, the two countries have maintained a friendly and strongly cooperation in various arenas. The two countries' officials have held talks in different economic, trade, political and cultural fields in recent years to explore new ways of expanding bilateral ties. Iran is one of the main oil suppliers to Japan.