Iran wants Namibia to consider opening an embassy in that country. Bidding farewell to President Hage Geingob at State House, Ambassador Qumarz Fotoeighixam says such a move would deepen the relations between the two countries. Fotoeighixam served as Iran's head of mission since that country re-opened its embassy in 2013. The embassy remained closed for years due to the economic problems Iran experienced as a result of sanctions over its nuclear program. However, the gulf state maintained its ties with Namibia, owing to its 15% stake in the Rössing Uranium Mine. The outgoing ambassador said during his tenure, he worked towards expanding cooperation in key sectors. But challenges such as acquiring business visas hindered these efforts, hence a request for Namibia to consider opening an embassy in Tehran. President Hage Geingob says a consular is more cost effective due to the current global drop in commodity prices which have not been easy on Namibia. The ambassador also extended an invitation of working visit to President Geingob. The Head of State is, however hopeful that the breakthrough pact on Iran's nuclear program would help the country to continue developing itself. Iran enjoys an observer member status at the African Union and has since demonstrated active presence in AU member states through bilateral and economic along India, Japan, China and several South American states.