Iranian FM calls Iran-Algeria ties deep-rooted

TEHRAN,Feb.19(MNA) – The Iranian foreign minister described relations with Algeria as “deep-rooted”, calling for further expansion of ties with the North African country. Ali Akbar Salehi made the remarks during a meeting with the chairman of the foreign affairs commission of the Algerian parliament on Monday. He also called on the Iranian and Algerian parliaments to help foster closer ties, especially in economic areas, between the two countries. Commenting on scientific and technological achievements in Iran and its great potential in various areas, Salehi said Tehran is ready to transfer its expertise to the brother country of Algeria. The Iranian foreign minister pointed to the common views of Iran and Algeria as two important and influential countries in two critical regions of the world, and called for the necessity of continued consultations between the two countries. Salehi also condemned the recent terrorist attack in Algeria that led to the murder of 37 people at a gas plant in the country’s south. Pointing to efforts and plots by enemies of Islam to create sectarian conflicts between Muslims, Salehi urged Muslim countries to be vigilant against such plots. For his part, the top lawmaker said the Algerian parliament is willing to help boost ties with Tehran and called for the establishment of a parliamentary joint high commission. He also said Algeria supports Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear energy and condemned the double standard policies adopted by a number of Western countries in regard to Iran’s nuclear program. Salehi also met with Niger’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mohamed Bazoum, on Monday and discussed the expansion of ties with the African country in various areas, especially in economic field. Bazoum said Niger is willing to use Iran’s experiences in scientific and industrial areas.