Expansion of ties with Africa, priority in Iran's policy: VP

Tehran, Dec 7, IRNA – First Vice-President Mohammad-Reza Rahimi said here on Tuesday that expansion of ties with all friendly African countries is a priority in Iran’s foreign policy.

He made the remarks in a joint press conference attended by visiting Prime Minister of Djibouti Dileita Mohamed Dileita, who was officially seen off by Rahimi after the press conference.

Rahimi reiterated that there is no restriction for expansion of all-out ties with African countries.

Describing the bilateral cooperation between both countries as friendly and amicable, Rahimi said the current visit to Iran of the Djibouti’s PM would lead to further promotion of all-out ties between both sides.

Rahimi voiced Iran’s readiness to further boost economic, trade and agricultural cooperation with Djibouti. He also voiced Tehran’s interest to share technical know-how with Djibouti.

Expressing satisfaction with his visit to Iran, Dileita said the two countries were determined to further bolster bilateral cooperation in all areas.

During his three-day stay in Iran, Dileita held separate meetings with President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki and Majlis Speaker Ali Larijani. He also discussed issues of mutual interest with Rahimi.

Two agreements on promotion of joint investment between Tehran and Djibouti City were also signed during Dileita’s stay.

The documents were signed by the ministers of commerce of the two countries./end