Story by Stanley James, Business Editor
ZIMBABWE has extended its condolences to Iran after a chemical explosion and fire claimed more than 20 people and injured over a thousand people, at the country’s largest port city of Bandar Abbas.
The explosion which occurred on Saturday, south of the capital city, has seen Zimbabwe joining African countries in consoling Iran.
Vice President General Retired Dr Constantino Chiwenga conveyed Zimbabwe’s condolence message at the Iran-Africa Economic Conference Review Session Monday night.
“We want to express our deep sorrow over the tragic event that took place in Banda Abbas resulting in the loss of lives and injuries, my heartfelt condolences go to the grieved families, the government and the people of Iran. We wish you recovery,” Vice President Chiwenga said.
Turning to economic issues, Dr Chiwenga called on African governments to enhance cooperation with Iran.
“Allow me to express my heartfelt gratitude for the exceptional hospitality we continue to enjoy in this country since we arrived, the issues of interest between Iran and Africa have been wholly summarised and we should follow them. I urge all of us here to seize opportunities presented by this event to strengthen ties between Iran and Africa through dialogue and idea sharing towards development, our interactions tonight enhance cooperation across various areas of mutual interest,” he said.
Zimbabwe participated at the Third Iran-Africa Economic Conference with assurances by the government of more cooperation with Iran and global partners driven by the removal of barriers to trade.
