Pretoria - International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Ebrahim Ebrahim has wrapped up an official visit to the Islamic Republic of Iran which was aimed at discussing political developments in the region.
His visit to the country, between 16 and 18 April, took place at the invitation of Dr Hossein Amir Abdollahian, Deputy Foreign Minister for Arab and African Affairs of Iran, who visited South Africa in May 2012.
According to the department, Ebrahim and his counterpart exchanged views on the political developments in the Middle East, with special focus on Palestine and Syria.
“The two principals had consensus on the situation in Syria, hence they called for an immediate end to all forms of violence and that all parties without any pre-condition must enter into dialogue that would assist them to draw-up a new constitution and have elections. Furthermore they also encouraged the Syrians to decide on their future without any interference,” said the department.
Ebrahim presented the BRICS declaration which condemns Israel policy of expanding its settlement in the Palestine territory and speaks about supporting the struggle of the Palestine people for their independence. The occupation undermines the two state solutions within the borders demarcated by the United Nations (UN) in 1948.
The two deputy ministers also discussed political developments in Iran, particularly leading to the Presidential elections that are to be held in two months’ time.
They also deliberated on the political developments in the African region with a focus to Central African Republic, Somalia, Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Joint Commission, which will see the two countries strengthening their relations and also reviewing Bilateral Agreements that exist, also topped the agenda of the visit.
It was decided that a Joint Commission will be held in October later this year. – SAnews.gov.za
