Outgoing Iranian Ambassador Majid Saffar has urged Uganda and Iran to deepen cooperation in agriculture, education, scientific research and investment as he concludes his diplomatic assignment.
Outgoing Iranian Ambassador to Uganda Majid Saffar has called for stronger diplomatic, educational, cultural and economic cooperation between the two countries as he concludes his tour of duty.
Saffar made the remarks during a farewell visit to the Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, at the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) headquarters in Kampala.
The envoy thanked the Ugandan government, Muslim leadership and the public for the hospitality and cooperation extended to him during his diplomatic assignment, saying his tenure had provided an opportunity to strengthen relations between the two countries.
“Thank you, Your Eminence, for the warm hospitality you have offered me,” Saffar said, appreciating the Mufti’s continued cooperation and support.
He highlighted opportunities for expanding bilateral cooperation in agriculture, scientific research, education, cultural exchange and investment.
Saffar said several Iranian companies were already operating in Uganda, while others were exploring investment opportunities, particularly in agriculture.
“There are already some Iranian firms operating in Uganda, and more companies are willing to explore investment opportunities in areas of agriculture, such as oilseed farming and livestock production, due to the availability of land and favourable climate, among other natural resources,” he said.
The ambassador also reaffirmed Iran’s willingness to expand academic cooperation by offering more opportunities for Ugandan students to pursue higher education in Iranian institutions.
He said Iran was prepared to share scientific knowledge, research findings, technical skills and expertise to support Uganda’s socioeconomic transformation and national development.
On international affairs, Saffar addressed the ongoing conflict in the Persian Gulf, describing attacks against Iran as acts of aggression and maintaining that his country’s response was defensive and consistent with international law and national sovereignty.
He also acknowledged Uganda’s leadership of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), saying the two countries’ membership provided a platform for stronger diplomatic engagement and cooperation on matters of mutual interest.
In his response, Mufti Mubaje commended Saffar for his efforts to strengthen relations between Iran and Uganda, particularly through his engagement with the Muslim community and UMSC.
The Mufti also extended condolences to the ambassador following the recent death of his father and thanked him for promoting friendship and mutual understanding between the two countries.
Mubaje praised the Ugandan government for maintaining diplomatic relations with Iran and protecting religious freedom, which he said had enabled different faith communities to practise their beliefs.
“We as Muslims are also grateful to the government for granting us, like other faith groups, the freedom to worship and practise our faith,” he said.
The Mufti called on parties involved in the Persian Gulf conflict to pursue dialogue and peaceful negotiations instead of confrontation, emphasising the importance of resolving disputes through diplomatic means.
He wished Saffar success in his future assignments, acknowledging the relationship the envoy had established with Muslim leaders during his stay in Uganda.
“We wish you well in your new endeavours. Anyway, we shall miss you,” Mubaje said.
As a gesture of appreciation, the Mufti presented Saffar with a silver plaque and souvenirs bearing the UMSC logo in recognition of his service and cooperation with the Muslim institution.