Tehran: President Masoud Pezeshkian has underscored the strategic importance of Africa in Iran's foreign policy, saying Tehran is committed to developing comprehensive cooperation with African countries through balanced diplomacy and based on shared interests.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Pezeshkian made the remarks on Monday during a meeting with General Celestin Simpor©, Minister of Defense and Veterans Affairs of Burkina Faso. The president expressed Iran's interest in strengthening ties with African nations, particularly Burkina Faso.

'The Islamic Republic of Iran has always viewed Africa through a long-term, strategic lens focused on mutual benefits,' he said. 'We are determined to pursue broad-based cooperation and are ready to use our capacities to elevate bilateral relations.'

Pezeshkian stressed the importance of high-level political, defense, and economic delegations between the two countries. 'Sustained official visits and specialized consultations can deepen mutual trust, strengthen friendly ties, and expand collaboration in economic, scientific, industrial, and defense sectors,' he said.

He added that developing relations with Burkina Faso fits within Iran's broader Africa policy and could enhance ties with other African nations.

Minister Simpor© praised Iran's resilience against decades of sanctions and pressure and lauded the country's achievements over the past four decades, particularly in defense industries and advanced technologies.