“In the current circumstances, there are numerous security and terrorist crises in the region, but, fortunately, the Islamic Republic of Iran enjoys sustainable security which paves the way for the expansion of trade ties,” Larijani said in a meeting with Madagascar’s Parliament Speaker Jean Max Rakotomamonjy, held in Tehran on Friday.

Highlighting the grounds for partnership between the Iranian and Madagascan companies, Larijani said the two countries can promote cooperation in the energy and petrochemical industry, agriculture, production of home appliances, tourism, and many other fields.

He also called for the establishment of Iran-Madagascar parliamentary friendship group.

For his part, the visiting African lawmaker praised Iran’s capabilities in various economic and industrial spheres, and called for efforts to strengthen and diversify relations between Tehran and Antananarivo.

Rakotomamonjy also expressed Madagascar’s willingness to use Iran’s experience in higher education and academic research.

Madagascar is a huge island nation off the southeast coast of Africa. Ecotourism and agriculture, paired with greater investments in education, health, and private enterprise, are key elements of Madagascar's development strategy.