Iran's Judiciary Chief says all Muslim countries have pinned their hopes on Iran as a country which pioneered the Islamic Republic.

"We hope to witness that the lofty goals of the late founder of the Islamic Republic Imam Khomeini are materialized in the Muslim world," Mahmoud Hashemi-Shahroudi told IRNA upon return from his tour of African states.

During his visit to Morocco and Senegal, he held talks with senior officials of both countries, who called for wide-ranging ties with Iran, particularly in the field of judiciary cooperation.

Pointing to his proposal to establish a union as well as a judicial council for Muslim states, he said, "We want to share our experiences with Muslim countries."

He also stated that both Moroccan and Senegalese officials have called for further expansion of relations in various areas such as science, economy and culture as well as judicial and legal fields.

The Judiciary chief underscored the importance of preserving unity and solidarity among Muslim states as well as boosting reciprocal relations in all areas.

Shahroudi wrapped up his eight-day visit to the African states and arrived in Tehran's Mehrabad International Airport late Sunday. He was welcomed by high-ranking judiciary officials.

SF/GMA/BGH