(MNA) -- On Iran’s membership at BRICS association, FM Zarif said Iran was after comprehensive ties with BRICS since it was an emerging economic group and expressed hope that venues for further cooperation will be provided.

South Africa has always been eager to launch bilateral relations with Iran as a major developing country. BRICS is the acronym for an association of five major emerging national economies including Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

Zarif described Iran-South Africa ties as special ones saying “the South African Liberation Movement led by the late Nelson Mandela formed the basis for Iran’s relations with the African country and we have enjoyed best of cooperation with the people and government of South Africa since they were released from the control of apartheid."

He expressed his delight at the formation of the 13th round of Iran-South Africa Joint Economic Commission, adding that “cooperation and collaboration between the two sides are expanding more and more.”

“Talks will be held on venues for expansion of political, international, regional and economic ties during the upcoming session of the Commission,” FM Zarif said about the objectives of his visit to South Africa.

The official noted that he was being accompanied by a top-ranking economic delegation comprising private and state sector companies on this trip.

“Iranian firms will also have the opportunity to meet and become familiar with their South African counterparts,” highlighted the Iranian foreign minister expressing hope that the visit will benefit both countries.

Zarif further added that he will depart for Uganda and Niger next to hold political and economic discussions with the countries' officials and attend economic forums with his accompanying delegation.

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