South African Deputy Minister of Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Nomaindiya Mfeketo met and talked with Iran’s Deputy-FM for Arab and African Affairs Hossein Amir-Abdollahian on Sunday morning in Tehran and the two sides discussed venues for boosting bilateral ties.
Ms. Mfeketo evaluated the measures taken in the framework of the Political Committee and the Joint Commission between the two countries as well as exchange of high-ranking delegations between Tehran and Pretoria over the last two years as the root of flourishing ties between the two sides paving the way for South African president’s visit to Iran.
She further appreciated the stance of the Islamic Republic of Iran with regard to resolving the nuclear issue through dialogue as one of the most complicated international issues.
The South African official further supported Iran’s position in relation to Syria and Yemen emphasizing the need for political solution to the ongoing crises in these countries.
Iran’s Deputy FM Amir-Abdollahian, for his part, expressed satisfaction towards the growing trend of relations between the two countries deeming President Zuma’s trip to Terhan as highly significant.
The Iranian official expressed hope that the visit will produce fruitful outcomes in line with providing greater benefit to the two nations.
The two sides at the meeting further discussed the latest developments in West Asia as well as Africa and stressed the efforts of Iran and South Africa on finding a political solution to regional problems.
The meeting took place on the threshold of visit of South African President Jacob Zuma to Tehran, which is taking place the invitation of his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani.
During President Zuma's meeting with President Rouhani, several economic documents will be signed by the two countries' delegations.
South African president is scheduled to leave Tehran for the historic Iranian province of Isfahan on Monday.
HA/3606333