TEHRAN – Iran is determined to strengthen and expand its relations with African nations based on mutual interest and respect, stated Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian.

The top diplomat made the remarks during a Tuesday meeting with the Central African Minister for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises. During the meeting, Amir Abdollahian highlighted the importance of expanding relations with the African continent as a key priority of Iran's foreign policy.

The official expressed Iran's readiness to enhance bilateral cooperation with Central Africa, especially in areas such as agriculture, science, technology, and education.

Ngate Robard, for his part, commended Iran for its hosting of the second Iran-Africa Summit and Expo Tehran 2024, emphasizing the significance of these events.

The Central African Minister also praised Iran's advancements in various scientific, technological, and industrial sectors, while acknowledging the warm hospitality extended during his visit.

Iran has been seeking to strengthen ties with African nations since President Ebrahim Raisi’s administration took office. Raisi visited Kenya, Uganda, and Zimbabwe last year, and signed various documents to up bilateral cooperation in different fields. 

Central Africa is also believed to present several economic opportunities for Iran, as the West Asian country looks to expand its list of partners in the face of U.S. sanctions. 

The African country is rich in natural resources such as oil, gas, minerals, and timber which means it could benefit from using Iran’s expertise in resource extraction. Bangui is also seeking to form partnerships in infrastructure development. 

During a separate meeting on Tuesday, Amir Abdollahian also informed the Prime Minister of Burkina Faso, Apollinaire J. Kyélem de Tambèla, of Tehran’s willingness for a more effective presence in the West African nation. 

Burkina Faso has begun a quest to develop its economy and revive its culture, after decades of French colonialism.