Head of Iranian diplomat Abbas Aragci commented in his speech on Africa Day, the anniversary of the establishment of the African Union, held in Tehran on Sunday.
Below is the full text of Foreign Minister Araguchi’s speech that appeared on the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Telegram Channel.
In the name of God, compassionate and merciful
May 25, 2025
Respected Iranian officials will be present,
Honorable ambassador,
Dear colleague,
Famous guests, women, gentlemen,
First, I would like to express my joy in commemoration of this magnificent opportunity on Africa Day with my friends in Africa. This international event reflects the shared values within African communities. The African continent has a population of 1.4 billion in 55 countries and political organizations, and a young and dynamic population with rich linguistic and cultural diversity. Despite this diversity, the existence of common values has encouraged efforts to achieve greater unity among African countries. Perhaps this is why one of the most important and influential regional organizations, the African Union, holds a special place on the global stage. Furthermore, every year on May 25th, Africa Day is celebrated with great splendors across African countries and around the world.
Meeting me, my African friend, is a reminder of the efforts of African countries to break the chains of oppression, while at the same time striving for a better tomorrow. The legacy of the great African leaders from Kwame Nkrumah, Julius Nyerere and Jomo Kenyatta to Nelson Mandela will live on forever. I would also like to use this opportunity to honor Sam Njoma, the late Namibian independence leader.
As highlighted in the 2025 African Union slogan, “Justice for Africans and Reparations for Africans” aims to address historical injustice and lasting continental implications. And today marks 62 years since the successful establishment of an African unity organization that celebrates this precious achievement.
African countries are not only worthy of this achievement, but they strive to build on it. Africa’s efforts to win seats on the UN Security Council show how much the continent has added important new achievements to the first foundation. All of this shows that Africa is not limited to past achievements, but creates new honors every day.
Famous guest,
Africa has embarked on a fantastic march towards admiring development, with its rich culture and history filled with ups and downs. Today we witness Africa’s wise efforts to achieve important African outcomes. Among these, the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area stands out as one of the most important. It forms the world’s largest trading zone and has a population of over 1.4 billion.
Given its deep ties with Africa, the Islamic Republic of Iran calls for economic cooperation with the region within the framework of Africa’s free trade zones and African countries, and believes that Iran and African countries can complement each other in this sector and expand their ties from a thousand years ago.
Access to Africa’s abundant natural resources and Iran’s modern technology provides a response to both sides’ needs. Furthermore, the success of the third round of the Iran-Africa Economic Cooperation Forum last month will be warmly welcomed by your senior officials and promise a bright future by expanding joint Iran-Africa cooperation.
Honorable participants,
Ladies and gentlemen,
As you know, the Islamic Republic of Iran stood alongside Africa as a longtime friend. Now, more than half a century after establishing diplomatic relations on both sides, we must take valuable steps to maintain these relations. The Global South Union reflects our nation’s decision to share fate and brotherhood on the path of growth and development by initiating new plans and new orders.
Iran’s Islamic Republic proudly and in recognition of this long-standing humanitarian friendship, it expresses its readiness to cooperate in all areas, including political, economic, small and medium-sized industries, infrastructure, mining and student exchange, scientific achievements, scientific training, health tourism, health services, equipment, equipment, agriculture, agriculture, agriculture, and agriculture.
We would like to inform you that Dr. Pezeschkian’s government has a particular focus on issues of Africa. I hope this cooperation will bring about a bright future.
In conclusion, the Islamic Republic of Iran continues this relationship, as it has been alongside Africa in the past, and considers Africa’s prosperity as itself.
I hope that all brothers and noble nations in Africa will increase their prosperity.
MNA