Italy's Fincantieri has signed a number of framework agreements with Iranian companies, including one for the construction of merchant vessels.

The agreements were signed in Rome this week during an official visit by Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, and follow the United States and others' intent to lift some sanctions against Iran.

Fincantieri said one agreement for cooperation and development was reached with Azim Gostaresh Hormoz Shipbuilding Industry Co. for a new shipyard in Iran's special economic zone.

AGH is controlled by the larger Iran Shipbuilding and Offshore Industries Complex Company, which is under the administration of the Industrial Development & Renovation Organization of Iran -- one of that nation's largest organization involved in the development and industrialization process.

The agreement between Fincantieri and AGH includes cooperation on the building of new merchant vessels and offshore units for ship repairs, conversions and ship refitting activities.