TEHRAN – Defense Minister Brigadier General Muhammad Reza Ashtiani on Monday announced Iran’s readiness to provide Mali with military equipment and experience in the fight against terrorism.
In a meeting with his Malian counterpart Colonel Sadio Camara here, Ashtiani said Iran is prepared to share its equipment, experiences and capabilities in training with Mali in the war against terrorism.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran will spare no effort to strengthen Mali’s defense power against the threats posed by terrorist groups,” he added.
Gen. Ashtiani warned that the presence of certain Western governments in Africa is in line with their past colonial ambitions, and political objectives, aiming to create tension and instability.
“Although the Westerners claim hypocritically to be seeking to establish security in Africa, history shows that they spread terrorism in order to justify their presence in the region and interfere in the internal affairs of independent states, such as Mali,” Ashtiani added.
The Iranian minister also lauded the Malian government’s support for Palestine and its people as a stellar example of backing the oppressed.
For his part, Camara said Mali is interested in taking advantage of Iran’s experiences in the fight against terrorism and its initiative for the engagement of people and voluntary forces in ensuring security.