Iran's president embarks on a tour of Latin America after his stay in Gambia ends with promises of new economic cooperation between Tehran and Banjul.

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who arrived in Gambia on Sunday to begin the first leg of a combined tour of Africa and South America, left Banjul for Brasilia on the following day after meeting with his Gambian counterpart Al-haji Yahya Jammeh.

In comments that were made after talks with the Gambian president, Ahmadinejad said that Tehran and Banjul enjoyed "cordial" relations that still had room for further expansion.

He added that Iran was serious about promoting economic and political ties with the African state.

He pointed out that several significant agreements were reached in talks with the Gambian president.

Ahmadinejad said the agreements could pave the way for Iranian investment in Gambia's industrial and agricultural sectors.

Other than a visit to Brazil, Ahmadinejad's five-day tour of South America will include trips to Venezuela and Bolivia.

On his way back from the three Latin states he will also stop in Senegal for a short visit.

MJ/DT