Speaking at the third International Economic Conference of Iran & Africa on Sunday, Mohammadreza Aref emphasized that Iran views Africa not merely as a consumer market but as a strategic partner in the new global power structure.

“The time has come for the Global South to write its own rules in contemporary history,” he said.

Aref noted Africa’s prominent place in human history as the cradle of civilization and humanity, adding, “Africa’s rich culture and eventful history have always held a special place in the collective memory of the Iranian nation. We take pride in our millennia-old ties with the continent—ties that now, more than ever, must be expanded within a framework of shared interests.”

The first vice president stressed Iran’s willingness to share its expertise, technology and capital in mining and mineral industries—not for “ruthless extraction,” but to create value from Africa’s “golden soils.” He also called for civilizational cooperation in agriculture and food security.

Aref said Iran is prepared to collaborate with Africa as a strategic partner in designing clean energy and regional electricity networks.

He further expressed readiness for technological cooperation and knowledge transfer in infrastructure development, trade facilitation, financial cooperation, health, strengthening collaborative institutions, tourism, culture and other fields.