Iran Press/Iran news: "The provocative actions of the Zionist occupational regime against the oppressed Palestinian nation, which is influenced by the US extremist and unilateral conduct in the region, will not bring a happy ending for the Zionist, " said Iranian Parliamentary Director General for International Affairs Hossein Amirabdollahian in a meeting with the South African new ambassador to Tehran Vika Mazwi Khumalo on Wednesday.
Appreciating South Africa's continued support for Palestine, Amir Abdullahian added: "South Africa's stance in support of the oppressed Palestinian nation is an admirable intelligence of its foreign policy department, Iran Press reported.
Regarding the proposals of US officials to negotiate with Iran, Amir Abdollahian said: "We have seen Americans in both parties misbehave and evade their obligations but the Islamic Republic has always welcomed constructive talks with the countries of the region and the world, and that changing the practical behavior of the US towards the Iranian nation will be the basis of any new decision from Iran."
Calling for expansion of parliamentary and political exchanges between the two countries he stressed that officials at various levels, including heads of parliament, specialized committees and heads of parliamentary friendship groups are effective in boosting the two countries' cooperation.
Referring to special respect of Iranian people for Nelson Mandela as a symbol of the fight against apartheid, Amir Abdollahian praised South Africa's stance on regional developments and its focus on political solutions.
On his part, the South African ambassador also praised the important and constructive role played by the Islamic Republic of Iran in the region and in the world saying: boosting ties with Iran in different political, economic and regional fields is the will of the South African authorities and people.
Condemning the US unilateral conduct in withdrawing the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), Khumalo expressed hope that despite the unilateral US sanctions, the shadow of critical conditions will be removed from the region and all nations witness global security, stability, and peace.
Welcoming the expansion of parliamentary and political cooperation between the two countries, he highlighted the imminent visit of the Iranian Science and Higher Education Commission to his country and the visit of the South African women's parliamentary delegation to Tehran.
104/208
Read more:
Zarif stresses importance of expanding bilateral relations with Africa
Iran, South Africa mull boosting of defense cooperation
South Africa keen on joint investment with Iran: Envoy
