Iran, South Africa Discuss Coordination of Efforts to Boost Ties
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Diplomats from Iran and South Africa explored avenues for the expansion of bilateral relations in all fields, from banking ties to countering terrorism.
Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for Arab and African Affairs Hossein Jaberi Ansari held a meeting with South Africa’s Foreign Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane in the African country on Friday.
Briefing the foreign minister on the results of the 7th meeting of Iran-South Africa Joint Political Committee session, Jaberi Ansari highlighted Tehran’s readiness to promote cooperation with Pretoria in all fields.
The Iranian diplomat also noted that after negotiations, the two sides have agreed to hold biannual meetings of the Joint Political Committee, formulate a short-term road map for mutual economic cooperation, and prioritize efforts to facilitate banking interaction and cooperation in the oil and transportation industries.
Jaberi Ansari and Mashabane also discussed stronger economic relations and joint security action in the fight against terrorism.
Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, who took office in August 2013, has repeatedly stressed his administration’s interest in boosting relations with African states.
Back in April, South African President Jacob Zuma paid an official visit to Iran, during which the two sides signed a number of agreements to develop bilateral ties.
