March 01, 2007	Thursday	Safar 11, 1428

KHARTOUM, Feb 28: Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad made his first visit to Khartoum on Wednesday for talks with his Sudanese opposite number Omar al-Beshir, two leaders who have been increasingly defiant in the face of Western pressure.

Ahmadinejad said the trip was aimed at further bolstering ties between the oil-rich Islamic states -- both considered state sponsors of terrorism by Washington -- after Beshir visited Tehran in April 2006.

“Relations are at a very good level... We have many economic and cultural projects, in agriculture, energy and oil exploration in Sudan and culture. Good work has been prepared and agreements will be signed,” he said before leaving Tehran.

Ahmadinejad is expected to hold talks with Beshir and First Vice President Salva Kiir, Vice President Ali Osman Taha, as well as other senior regime officials during the two-day visit.—AFP