Following Iran’s Third Iran-Africa International Economic Cooperation Conference held recently across Kish Island, Tehran, and Isfahan, a high-level delegation from the Office of the President of Iran paid a visit to His Excellency Ambassador Salamu Koroma.
The delegation expressed strong interest in partnering with Sierra Leone’s private sector to boost trade and investment.
Led by Dr. Valiollah Aghayarzadeh, Assistant and Advisor on Agricultural Affairs to the Iranian President, the delegation conveyed Iran’s readiness to deepen economic and commercial ties with African nations, including Sierra Leone. Dr. Aghayarzadeh emphasized the need for collaboration between private sector investors from both countries to create sustainable business opportunities.
Among the delegation was Mr. Seyyed Mortez Sadat, Managing Director of Raouf Group, a leading Iranian manufacturer of medical and technological equipment. Highlighting their innovative oxygen production systems—critical during the COVID-19 pandemic—Mr. Sadat expressed keen interest in partnering with Sierra Leonean medical equipment traders, facilitated by Ambassador Koroma.
Ambassador Koroma welcomed the delegation and highlighted the long-standing cordial relations between Sierra Leone and Iran.
He underscored the challenges of transportation and visa facilitation that must be addressed to enhance bilateral trade. He also proposed establishing a local medical equipment manufacturing facility in Sierra Leone to mitigate logistical constraints and benefit the wider West African region.
Dr. Aghayarzadeh further suggested forging academic partnerships between renowned Iranian universities, such as Tehran University and University of Science and Industry, with Sierra Leonean institutions to promote knowledge transfer and youth development.
The delegation included Miss Elmira Habibi, Advisor to the National Engineering, Agriculture, and Natural Resources Organization for Women’s Affairs, who also took part in discussions.
Both sides expressed optimism about formalizing trade contracts and establishing university sisterhoods soon, aiming to strengthen cooperation for mutual economic growth and development.
Elizabeth Mamie Campbell
Information Attaché
Sierra Leone Embassy
Tehran/ Iran
