Benin’s President Thomas Yayi Boni has described Iran as a major regional power and highlighted the Islamic Republic’s role in maintaining peace and stability across the world.

In a meeting with Iran's President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in the African country’s de facto capital, Cotonou, on Sunday, Boni praised Iran's key role in resolving international issues and Tehran’s positive influence worldwide including in Africa.

In cooperation with Iran, Benin can play an effective role in expanding Tehran’s ties with the African states, he added.

Ahmadinejad, for his part, said, “Iran and Benin are two countries with common ideals and seek peace, progress and security for all nations.”

The Islamic Republic of Iran believes that international relations should be based on mutual respect and justice, the Iranian chief executive said.


Earlier in the day, at a joint conference with his Beninese counterpart, Ahmadinejad said Iran and Benin are “determined to expand their cooperation.”

He said that Iran and Benin have great potentials in various fields of economy, culture, tourism, and trade, which could be employed in the interest of the two nations.

Heading a high-ranking delegation, Ahmadinejad left Tehran on Sunday for a three-day tour of Africa.

Ahmadinejad said the visit is made upon an invitation by the presidents of the three African countries of Benin, Niger, and Ghana.

This is Ahmadinejad’s last scheduled visit to Africa as Iran’s president considering his term in office will come to an end in three months.