Publish Date: 14 October 2017 - 14:36

TEHRAN, Oct. 14 (MNA) – President Rouhani described deepening and cementing ties with African countries, especially Nigeria as a key principle of Iran's foreign policy.

Iran’s president made the remarks on Saturday while receiving the letter of credence of the new Ambassador of Nigeria to Tehran, Ibrahim Hamza, stressing that major Iranian companies were ready to advance developmental projects in Nigeria.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran is determined to develop relations with the friendly country of Nigeria," said President Rouhani

Stressing on the urgency of bilateral efforts to accelerate the operationalization of Tehran-Abuja agreements, Rouhani added: "We should take advantage of the existing potentials and capacities of Iran and Nigeria in various sectors to deepen ties".

"The Islamic Republic of Iran is ready to provide Nigeria with technical-engineering services in various sectors including road construction, energy and power production, as well as cultural, academic, technological and economic areas," continued the President.

He further said that Iran and Nigeria should cooperate in international organizations, adding: "Today, terrorism is a threat to the entire world and fighting it requires all countries' cooperation and determination".

During the meeting, the new Ambassador of Nigeria to Tehran, Ibrahim Hamza presented his letter of credence to the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran and called for expansion of relations and cooperation between the two countries.

He described the latest remarks by the US President about the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) regrettable and said: "Today, the entire world stands united against the opponents of the JCPOA".

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