Briefing the media after a meeting which has been described as fruitful, International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Nomaindiya Mfeketo and her Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian agreed that there is still untapped potential for the expansion of relations.

However, international sanctions imposed on Iran have made trade increasingly difficult, Deputy Minister Mfeketo said.

“Because of the impact (of sanctions), we had problems but we are on track, especially with the agreement with the P5+1. As soon as (this is) resolved, we will continue with our imports…” she said on Tuesday.

Despite pressure from some Western countries, South Africa has maintained good relations with Iran, and has repeatedly called for the lifting of sanctions against the Islamic republic.

Available: http://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/sa-hosts-iran-bilateral-talks