TEHRAN-- Kamal Kharrazi, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, currently heading a political and economic delegation on a trip to Nigeria met Nigerian President Abasanjo on Tuesday to discuss the two countries' mutual interests.

He also attended the first session of the joint Iran-Nigeria action committee cochaired by his Nigerian counterpart. Nigerian Foreign Minister Solelamido described the two countries' relations as being of benefit to them both.

Karrazi said that despite the existence of certain problems facing some of Iran's neighbors, Iran firmly intended to promote peace and security in the region.

He added that Iran considers African countries like Nigeria as its long-term partners.