Iran seeks closer ties with African states

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says the Islamic Republic’s incumbent administration pursues expansion of ties with African countries as a major foreign policy agenda, AVA Diplomatic reports.In a meeting with new accredited Burundian Ambassador to Tehran Omar Ntzimbere on Monday, Rouhani stated that he is happy with restoration of security to Africa.

He further noted that Iran is willing to expand relations with African countries, underlining that Tehran will go ahead with its technical and vocational training programs as well as health and agricultural assistance to Burundi.

Ntzimbere, for his part, said that his country views Iran as a friendly state deserving support, voicing Bujumbura government’s resolve to further enhance brotherly relations and cooperation with Tehran.

On February 10, Rouhani described developing relations with African nations as the priority of his administration, saying there is great potential for expanding economic ties between Iran and Africa.