Vice President Aliu Mahama on Monday urged Iranian business people to explore opportunities in agriculture, commerce, mining and the industrial sectors for the mutual benefits of both countries. The Vice President said this when he received a two-man Iranian delegation, Mr Mogtadai and Mr Noor Allahian, Board Chairman and President respectively of Ahlul Bait Foundation, at the Castle, Osu.

The visitors attended the Second Matriculation of the Islamic University of Ghana at East Legon, which was built by the Foundation. Dr. Majid Bizmark, Iranian Ambassador to Ghana and Alhaji Raheem Gbadamoshi, Registrar of the University, accompanied the guests. Vice President Mahama, who commissioned the University last October, urged the Foundation to introduce more professional courses that would aid the socio-economic development of Ghana.

"Ghana needs more professionals such as economists, lawyers, bankers and engineers to facilitate our progress so we would like you to offer these courses at the University," he said.

The five million dollar-institution, which started with 50 students to pursue a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theology and Religious Studies, now offers a course in Business Management. The University College has commissioned a team of experts to develop course outlines and syllabus for Accountancy and Administration options and hopes to receive accreditation for their introduction by the next academic year.

The University has invested in a Female Hostel, 10 lecture halls, an information technology centre, well-equipped libraries and sporting facilities. He said more facilities such as accommodation for lecturers would be built.

Vice President Mahama said Ghana was content with the excellent relations between her and Iran and lauded the latter's contribution not only to education, but also to health and agriculture. Mr Mogtadai, who spoke through an interpreter, said the object of his country's foreign policy was to maintain cordial relations with all countries, particularly Ghana.

He praised Ghana's democratic governance and contribution toward peace in the sub-region, saying that his country and Ghana have often cooperated at the international level. Mr. Mogtadai said relations between the countries would be stronger, following the establishment of a Joint Economic Commission.