New York:Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi of Iran and his Nigerien counterpart, Bakary Yaou Sangare, convened on the sidelines of the 81st UN General Assembly to discuss the expansion of bilateral relations and address international developments.

According to the Islamic Republic News Agency, the meeting, held on Monday evening, centered on enhancing ties between Iran and Niger, with a focus on issues of mutual interest. The discussions highlighted satisfaction with the current state of relations and explored avenues for further cooperation within the framework of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

Araghchi emphasized Iran's commitment to strengthening its relations with African nations, particularly with members of the AES. He expressed optimism about organizing a joint meeting between Iran and the Sahel alliance member states at the earliest opportunity.

Araghchi also expressed gratitude for Niger's show of solidarity with Iran against what he described as illegal military aggression by the United States and Israel. Additionally, he praised Niger's opposition to the misuse of the IAEA Board of Governors as a tool against Iran.

The Iranian Foreign Minister reaffirmed Iran's support for Niger's efforts to maintain its independence, national sovereignty, security, and stability, and to advance its development programs. During his visit to New York, Araghchi engaged with numerous international counterparts and representatives of various organizations on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.