President Masoud Pezeshkian has announced Iran’s readiness to expand comprehensive cooperation with African nations, offering to share its advancements in healthcare, trade, industry, agriculture, security, and peace.
Speaking at the Third Iran-Africa Economic Cooperation Conference in Tehran on Sunday, Pezeshkian emphasized Tehran’s commitment to building stronger ties with Africa. The event, attended by First Vice-President Mohammad-Reza Aref and Minister of Industry, Mine, and Trade Mohammad Atabak, has brought together representatives from over 50 African countries, including heads of chambers of commerce, to boost economic collaboration.
The conference features four specialized ministerial panels, focusing on key sectors: petrochemicals, mining and metals, agriculture and food industries, and health and pharmaceuticals.
Running from April 27 to 29 in Tehran, the event will continue in Isfahan from April 30 to May 1. African delegates are also scheduled to visit Iran Expo 2025, taking place in Tehran from April 28 to May 2, with over 2,500 traders, business leaders, and presidents of chambers of commerce from more than 100 countries expected to attend.
At the opening ceremony, First Vice-President Aref highlighted Iran’s consistent approach to Africa, grounded in principles of justice, dignity, and shared historical bonds. He noted that Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has repeatedly stressed the importance of strengthening ties with African nations—a priority the Pezeshkian administration is determined to pursue.
Aref further pointed to Iran’s wealth of resources—including oil, gas, and minerals—as well as its technological expertise, affirming that Iran seeks to leverage these assets not for dominance but for mutually beneficial partnerships.
In his remarks, Minister Atabak described Africa as a key partner for Iran, calling for a tenfold increase in bilateral trade. He noted that Iran’s current trade with Africa accounts for only 3% of its exports and 1% of its imports, amounting to around $800 million—figures he said should grow substantially.