The Iranian industry and mines minister met the Nigerien minister of agricultural development, who is also the caretaker of the ministry of mines and energy, and called for development of the two countries' relations especially in mining.
The Mehr News Agency quoted Ali-Akbar Mehrabian as saying in a meeting with Ahaman Moussa on the sidelines of signing the MOU that Iran's basic policy is to expand ties with African countries, especially Muslim states.
The Nigerien Minister of Trade, Industry and Normalization Minister Halidou Badje was present at the meeting.
Mehrabian pointed to Niger's rich and vast mineral resources and said the MOU will help broaden relations in the field of exploration and extraction of mineral resources.
The Iranian side noted that Iran is highly advanced in the field of mine study and exploitation and said that Tehran would assist Niamey in exploration, establishment of a geological center and educating Nigerien specialists in exploration and extraction.
Moussa reiterated that Iran is very mush advanced in the field of mines and requested aid in this regard.
He said the Nigerien president had devised a new policy for expanding relations, thus creating a good opportunity for developing new ties and partnership in projects in Niger.
Badje stated that in addition to mines, Niger seeks Iran's cooperation in agriculture and education.
He said that for this reason he has held separate meetings with Iranian agriculture and education ministers.