Tehran economic conference: President Raeisi hails Iran-Africa expansion of ties

Iranian President Ebrahim Raeisi says the Islamic Republic and the African nations are keen to strengthen ties between the two sides, noting that enhanced ties can form a complementary economy. 

Raeisi made the remarks during the 2nd Iran & Africa International Economic Conference on Friday at Tehran’s International Conference Center. 

“This meeting is a symbol of the will of African nations and Iran to expand economic ties,” he told the gathering that hosted representatives from 30 African countries. 

Raeisi hailed the conference as an opportunity for both Iran and the African nations to get familiar with their mutual capacities.

“Despite threats and sanctions, the Islamic Republic of Iran has made good progress. The Islamic Republic can be called an advanced and technological country,” he said, stressing that getting familiar with the achievements of Iran in the field of emerging technologies is of “great importance.”

The president said Iran seeks to maintain ties with Africa based on mutual interest, unlike many Western countries that have “plundered” Africa’s resources. “Westerners want Africa for themselves but we want Africa for Africa.”

Tehran believes that Africa has skilled labor forces and can achieve progress in many fields, including emerging technologies, he stressed.