Iran can serve as reliable partner for S. Africa in region

In a meeting here with the visiting Speaker of the National Assembly of South Africa Baleka Mbete on Sunday, Zarif called for promotion of mutual cooperation in all fields, particularly the banking sector.

He characterized South Africa as a friendly country to Iran that help the latter in its tough times, especially in times of sanctions.

Meanwhile, the South African official, for her part, welcomed efforts to further enhance Tehran-Pretoria relations, especially in the field of banking cooperation.

Hailing the existing potentials to boost bilateral cooperation, MBete stressed the need for development of those capacities.

The two officials further exchanged views on different issues including holding joint cooperation commission, President Rouhani’s upcoming visit to South Africa, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and regional developments, particularly the issue of Palestine.

MBete who arrived in Tehran on Saturday at the head of parliamentary delegation also explored avenues for boosting bilateral relations and certain regional and international issues with Majlis Speaker Ali Larijani and President Hassan Rouhani.