Iran's Khatami: 21st century, an era for Africa all-out development

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From:IRNA

President Mohammad Khatami said here Wednesday that the 21st century was the time for all-out development of the African continent.

Addressing a press conference after according an official welcome to the visiting Malian President Amandou Toumani Toure, he pointed out that the past century had been an era of movement and progress towards freedom and independence for the continent.

Khatami believed Mali was a country which moved forward in great pace towards development.

He further voiced Iran's determination to expand cooperation with Mali in all areas.

Referring to his January 2005 visit to Mali, he said the visit proved the solid relations between the two countries which try to remain free and independent in the international arena.

The Malian president, for his part, said his visit to Iran aimed at promoting ties between the two countries in different fields of energy, agriculture and industries.

He further stressed the importance of cooperation between the two countries' research centers on agriculture.

Toumani Toure, heading a high-ranking 25-member political and economic delegation, arrived here Tuesday night for a three-day visit and was officially welcomed by President Mohammad Khatami at Sa'dabad Palace Wednesday morning.

During his stay here, Toure is scheduled to hold talks with Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, President Mohammad Khatami, President-elect Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and several other senior officials of the country.

Promotion of bilateral ties and issues of mutual interest will be top on the agenda of talks to be held between the Malian president and senior Iranian officials.

The Malian delegation is also to visit Pars Khodro Diesel auto-manufacturing company. Iran and Mali are expected to sign documents on bilateral cooperation.
http://www.irna.ir/en/news/view/line...1206113317.htm