Iran determined to expand relations with African countries: President Raeisi

Iran’s President Ebrahim Raeisi says development of relations with African countries is among top foreign policy priorities of the Islamic Republic.

Raeisi made the remarks in a meeting with Togo’s Foreign Minister Robert Dussey on Monday, saying that under the new Iranian administration, Iran will pursue development of economic, trade, and political relations with African countries with renewed strength.

He said Western powers have mainly sought to colonize and exploit African countries and they are currently pursuing their own wishes and interests in the continent in various forms.

He hailed "valuable" efforts by African people to "safeguard their independence" and added, "Their success depends on the emphasis on national and cultural identity and resistance against excessive demands."

The Iranian president stated, "African countries have the necessary capacities for development and prosperity, and the Islamic Republic of Iran supports independence, progress and welfare of African people."

The foreign minister of Togo, for his part, said his country is keen to establish joint broad and comprehensive relations with Iran to activate bilateral capabilities towards serving common interests.

Dussey condemned the West's cruel sanctions against independent states and nations.

Iran attaches great significance to relations with Algeria: Raeisi

In another meeting with Algerian's new ambassador to Tehran Ali Arouj, the Iranian president said expansion of relations with the North African country is of great significance to the Islamic Republic.

Pointing to Algerian people's brilliant resistance against French colonialism, Raeisi said, "Colonial powers have never given up their colonial spirit and are always pursuing their colonial goals with a new approach."

002