He highlighted the rich background of petrochemical cooperation between Iran and South Africa, expressing hope that the two countries will redeem their joint activities in various sectors of the oil, gas and petrochemical industries.
The joint venture was known as the Arya Sasol Polymer Company. Iran and South Africa equally invested 1.35 billion euros in the project.
Moazzami said in the past South Africa has been a major customer for Iran's crude oil and the two sides have experienced favorable relations in this area.
"During the meeting, we stressed restoring Iran's crude oil supply to South Africa by bringing it to the pre-sanction era,… It was agreed that negotiations continue at expert level and be pursued by the international affairs department of National Iranian Oil Company," said Moazzami.
South Africa has also agreed to by petrochemical products from Iran, said Moazzami, adding the African country has pledged to set the grounds for expanding Iran's refining industry by assisting in construction of new refineries which will boost Iran's refining capacity.
"South Africa is viewed by Iran as an important and influential country in Africa and we are trying to remove obstacles to boosting mutual cooperation with the country," he said.
"By acknowledging Iran's new conditions following the lifting of sanctions, South African energy companies can be encouraged to restore their presence in Iran and prepare for join business with Iranian companies," she said.
Majola further stressed Pretoria's readiness to help open up a new chapter in energy cooperation between South African and Iranian companies, and said transfer of GTL technology and forming joint ventures with Iranian companies are among the areas favored by South African companies.
Also in the meeting, South Africa's Energy Department Deputy Director-General Tseliso Maqubela said the country has plans to raise its refining capacity from the current 300,000b/d to 700,000b/d in the coming years, and said Iran and South Africa can enjoy partnerships in boosting their refining capacity and constructing new refineries.
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