IRNA � South Africa is not only a friend, but also an important partner, said Iranian Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammad Javad Zarif in Pretoria, South Africa, on Monday.

He said in the 13th Iran-South Africa Joint Commission session that the relationship with South Africa is of great importance to Iran.

Calling nelson Mandela a hero, he stressed there is a good chance for cooperation, and stressed the cooperation in different fields, fighting terrorism, and international affairs.

Zarif expressed Iran's readiness to expand cooperation in transportation, transit, shipping, tourism and banking.

Saying that change is needed in Iran-South Africa relations, he added that a decision was made to expand commercial and banking ties during visit of South African President Jacob Zuma to Iran last year.

Zarif also said that he is sure that the agreements signed will help the countries to expand ties.