Iran-Namibia relations could be expanded: Iranian FM

TEHRAN,July 9(MNA)– Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi said that the relations between Iran and Namibia can be expanded in various areas. The Iranian official made the remarks on Monday upon arrival in Windhoek. On the third leg of his tour of southern Africa, Salehi traveled to Namibia to meet with the African country’s officials to explore ways of increasing bilateral cooperation. “The relations between Iran and Namibia can be expanded in various areas,” he said, adding, “Iran has extensive experience in various sectors, including infrastructure development.” The foreign minister also described Namibia as an important country, which was the fourth largest exporter of non-fuel minerals in Africa, saying that there were many opportunities that could be used to benefit the two countries. Salehi was also scheduled to attend the ceremony which would be held during his two-day stay in Namibia to reopen the Iranian Embassy in Windhoek after 15 years. Namibia calls for enhanced ties with Iran During a meeting with the Iranian foreign minister on Monday, Namibian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Peya Mushelenga highlighted the need for increased efforts to expand bilateral relations in all areas. He also described political and economic relations between the two countries as strong and thanked the Islamic Republic for supporting the African country. Salehi, for his part, said that Iran was keen to support and cooperate with Namibia. He also said that the two countries had many commonalities, adding that Tehran and Windhoek could increase cooperation in agricultural, industrial, fishing, health, and food sectors. In addition, he underlined the need for the exchange of visits by the two countries’ political, economic, parliamentary, and cultural delegations to help improve the relations. Salehi also met with Namibian President Hifikepunye Pohamba on the same day. In the meeting, Pohamba expressed hope that bilateral relations would be strengthened during the term of the new Iranian president, Hassan Rohani.