In a significant move to enhance technological cooperation, Iranian Vice President for Science, Technology, and Knowledge-based Economy, Rouhollah Dehqani-Firouzabadi, met with Senegal’s Minister of Plan Senegal Emergent, Cheikh Kanté, in Tehran on Saturday. During the meeting, discussions focused on ways to bolster technological ties between the two nations, with a particular emphasis on collaboration in mini oil refineries, agriculture, and health.
Dehqani-Firouzabadi highlighted the potential for collaboration between the two countries, especially in West Africa, stating that it offers a valuable opportunity for Iran to strengthen its relations. He emphasized the importance of deepening cooperation in mini oil refineries, agriculture, and health sectors, which are pivotal for the economic development of both nations.
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Senegal Acknowledges Iran’s Technological Advances
Cheikh Kanté, the Senegalese official, expressed admiration for Iran’s scientific and technological advancements, stating, “I knew that Iran is on the right track and it has made considerable advances, but attending the meeting, I realized that the country has made great strides in science and technology.” He conveyed Senegal’s eagerness to cooperate with Iran in the fields of science and technology, citing the need for such collaborations in Africa.
Kanté identified food, energy, and technology as the key axes of cooperation between Senegal and Iran. He conveyed Senegal’s readiness to enter into contracts and memoranda of understanding to expand scientific and technological collaboration. Highlighting the significance of these collaborations, he emphasized that Africa, as a continent, requires such scientific partnerships for mutual development.
Iran’s Focus on East Africa for Technology Products
Iran has set its sights on East Africa for technology product exports. A trade-technology delegation was sent to Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania from October 15-22, aiming to expand exports in these three countries. Health (medicines and medical equipment), agriculture, machinery, food, and industries have been identified as the most suitable fields for export. Iranian knowledge-based companies have already concluded contracts for exporting medical equipment and medicine to Africa.
In July, President Ebrahim Raisi concluded a three-nation tour of Kenya, Uganda, and Zimbabwe, marking the first African tour by an Iranian president in more than a decade. During the tour, initiatives for technological collaborations were discussed, and agreements were reached. The African market is viewed as an attractive opportunity for Iranian knowledge-based companies, and efforts are underway for exporting medical equipment and medicines.
Iran’s Unique Perspective on Africa
Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, accompanying President Raisi on his Africa trip, outlined Iran’s unique perspective on the continent. He emphasized Iran’s aim to empower Africa through technology transfer, differentiating it from neo-colonialist approaches. The minister highlighted two key points of convergence between Iran and African countries—sensitivity to protecting independence and the shared challenge of facing U.S. sanctions.
In essence, the ongoing discussions and initiatives between Iran and Senegal, along with the broader outreach to African nations, signal a strategic focus on enhancing technological collaboration and fostering mutual development in key sectors.