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Iran’s foreign minister meets Malian officials during first leg of Africa tour

Wednesday, 24 August 2022 11:43 AM [ Last Update: Wednesday, 24 August 2022 11:43 AM ]

Mahdi Abbasian
Press TV, Bamako

The first joint commission of Iran-Mali cooperation was held in Mali’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Bamako. The meeting was co-chaired by Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and his Malian counterpart Abdoulaye Diop.

The top Iranian diplomat reiterated Tehran’s policy to boost economic cooperation with Mali, saying that Tehran and Bamako have a bright future ahead of them and therefore should seize the moment.

Amir-Abdollahian also stated Iran’s preparedness to transfer scientific technologies to the African nation, adding that Iran is ready to establish a technology exhibition in Mali. He then announced the donation of a million doses of domestically-produced Barakat Covid vaccine to the country.

Mali’s foreign minister, on the other hand, hailed Iran’s policy of expansion of ties with African countries as a smart move and a great opportunity for African nations. He also described Iran’s scientific and industrial progress despite the international sanctions as instructive and precious.

Diop noted that Iran truly seeks to improve friendly ties with Mali, saying, unlike some other countries, Tehran underlines cooperation and expansion of trade ties with African nations, instead of conquest and imposition.

Amir-Abdollahian then met with the head of the transitional government in Mali, Assimi Goita, and discussed bilateral relations and some international issues.

He also stressed the determination of the administration of Iranian President Ebrahim Raeisi to expand cooperation with the Malian government, especially in three commercial, defense, and technology fields. Goita, for his turn, welcomed the agreements reached between the two countries.

Amir-Abdollahian’s visit to Mali has concluded and Tanzania will be his next destination.

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