Tehran: Minister of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics of Iran Brigadier General Aziz Nasirzadeh has announced that Tehran is committed to expanding its relations with independent and revolutionary countries in West Africa, with a special focus on Burkina Faso.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, the Iranian minister made these remarks during a meeting in Tehran with Minister of Defense and Veterans Affairs of Burkina Faso General Celestin Simpore. Brigadier General Nasirzadeh expressed gratitude for Burkina Faso's condemnation of the Israeli regime's hostile actions against Iran, and for the message of sympathy and condolence from his Burkinabe counterpart.

The importance of Africa, particularly independent African states, in Iran's foreign and defense strategy was highlighted by the minister, who emphasized the need to strengthen ties with nations pursuing sovereign and anti-colonial agendas. He praised recent developments in the Sahel region, including Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali, as popular movements against colonial policies and noted the growing alliance among these countries, particularly their formation of the Sahel Alliance in response to Western pressure.

Brigadier General Nasirzadeh also addressed ongoing Western efforts to undermine Burkina Faso's sovereignty, reiterating Iran's support for nations that maintain their independence.

In response, General Simpore expressed solidarity with the Iranian nation and honored the martyrs of the 12-day war, commending the resilience of the Iranian people. He emphasized that Burkina Faso values the resistance of the Iranian people in defending their identity and independence against imperial domination, stating that lasting global peace can be achieved if relationships based on domination are dismantled and justice and peace are prioritized.