TEHRAN -- The Islamic Republic attaches high importance to broadening of its relations with African countries and communities, the African Union (AU) in particular, Iranian Ambassador to Ethiopia Morteza Damanpaak Jami said here Saturday.

In a meeting with President of the AU Commission Amara Essy, the ambassador recalled that Iran allocated $200 million for opening credit lines in order to cement its ties with African states.

Damanpaak Jami further appreciated the AU official for his efforts in establishing the African Union and his attention toward African and regional developments.

Essy, in response, pointed to the idea of 'dialogue among civilizations' initiated by Iranian President Mohammad Khatami as a sign indicating Iranians' Islamic beliefs as well as rich culture and civilization.

During the meeting, the two sides reviewed ways for enhancement of mutual ties, IRNA reported.

The AU is a body designed to integrate Africa along the lines of the European Union, with the power to send in peacekeepers to halt genocidal wars.