Iranian president embarks on tour to strengthen ties between Iran, Nicaragua

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has embarked on a tour of Latin American countries under US sanctions, aiming to strengthen ties between Iran and Nicaragua.

Raisi, whose own country is also under US sanctions, began his trip in Venezuela before visiting Nicaragua and planning to travel to Cuba.

During a speech in Nicaragua’s National Assembly, Raisi expressed Iran’s willingness to share its capabilities and experiences with the “brotherly and friendly country” of Nicaragua. He highlighted the geographical distance between the two nations but emphasized the closeness of their hearts and shared goals.

Raisi also emphasized their common history of struggle, resistance, revolutions, and combat against a mutual adversary.

In Venezuela, Raisi and Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro signed 25 agreements across various sectors, including education, health, and mining. The focus in Nicaragua was on deepening trade and exchanges.

Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega announced the signing of a “basic memorandum” with Raisi, outlining steps to enhance bilateral exchange.

“This includes establishing a binational commission to promote economic, commercial, and scientific-technical cooperation,” he said.

Ortega has previously supported Iran’s right to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, questioning the moral authority of Western powers in banning Iran from possessing nuclear weapons.

Source: Agence France-Presse and SGP