Aref: Iran’s ties with world countries based on national interests, priorities

African market could become promising export destination for Iran


During the first meeting of the “Africa Task Force” on Monday, Vice President Mohammadreza Aref emphasized the importance of Africa in the ideology of Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution.
He stated that the current administration, aligned with Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei’s vision, values relations with countries within Iran’s civilizational sphere and African nations.
The vice president, addressing the task force, composed of members from various ministries and organizations, said, “We believe in engaging with most countries worldwide based on our national interests and the interests of our counterparts.”
Aref added that the foreign policy’s priority for establishing relations includes Islamic countries, neighboring nations, regional organizations, and the African continent.  
While economic benefits for both sides are crucial, the Revolution’s cultural and value-based approach transcends mere economics, he stressed, noting that Iran could achieve greater success in both cultural and economic spheres.  
Th VP described Africa as a promising market with over 1.4 billion people, offering opportunities for exports and meeting Iran’s needs in essential goods and agricultural products.
“Given Iran’s climatic challenges and water scarcity, the continent is vital for sustainable agricultural supply chains,” the top official stated.

A task force for all of Africa  
Aref told the task force that despite past difficulties, Iran has now established the Africa Task Force. He noted that while African countries are diverse, their challenges are similar, allowing for a unified strategy for cooperation.  
He acknowledged that past efforts in Africa were inconsistent, with limited progress often halted by leadership changes.
Aref emphasized the need for a stronger presence, leveraging Iran’s cultural, economic, and technical expertise to achieve significant outcomes.  

Time for action
Aref stated that the government supports robust engagement with Africa. While cultural and economic reports appear positive, practical efforts have been lacking. Competitors have strengthened their foothold during Iran’s absence, but Africa still holds significant potential for Iran.  
He urged the Africa Task Force to prioritize and advance initiatives, utilizing diplomatic, scientific, and technological capabilities. Strengthening cultural and scientific diplomacy is essential, with Iranian universities playing a key role.  
Aref underscored the high educational standards of Iranian universities, noting that African students could serve as cultural ambassadors.

Placing premium on techno-engineering services

Aref emphasized the global competitiveness of Iran’s technical and engineering services, noting their quality and affordability.
While opportunities in Africa were missed in the past, it is now time to make up for lost ground, he stressed.
The Africa Task Force was established during the presidency of Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, former president of Iran, following his visit to Africa and the creation of the Supreme Council for Africa in the early 1990s.

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