Iran, Algeria enjoy ‘very good’ relations: Algerian ambassador

TEHRAN,May 30 - The Algerian ambassador to Tehran said Iran and Algeria enjoy “very good” relationship in various spheres and are making efforts to strengthen ties. Ambassador Sofiane Mimouni made the remarks during an interview with the Tehran Times on the occasion of Africa Day, which is the annual commemoration on May 25 of the 1963 founding of the Organization of African Unity. “The level of relations between Iran and Algeria is very good, and political consultations are regularly being held between the two countries at all levels. Over the past years, bilateral relations have developed in an atmosphere of trust, mutual respect, and equality of interests of the two countries,” Mimouni stated. On economic cooperation between Iran and Algeria, he said, “I gladly announce that the holding of the first (meeting) of (the joint) high economic commission in November 2010, in which relations between the two countries were assessed as good, introduced new areas for cooperation, and this will help increase the volume of bilateral trade and diversify interactions. “The common goal that we have set is to make economic cooperation between the two countries more stable. We are making preparations to hold the second meeting of the joint high economic commission, which will be held in Algiers.” The top Algerian diplomat in Iran added that the volume of bilateral trade is not satisfactory and that the two countries have signed more than 40 agreements to enhance economic ties. He also stated that efforts are underway to develop cultural ties between the two countries. Elsewhere in his remarks, Mimouni said, “The Islamic Republic of Iran has announced that expanding ties with African countries is a priority in its foreign policy, an attitude welcomed by African countries. We hope to see a high level of cooperation between Iran and African countries.” And it is necessary that both sides hold more consultations and abide by their commitments to help strengthen ties, the ambassador added.