New Delhi, Aug. 10 (PTI): India will open Embassies in four countries including Iceland and create a Consulate General in Guangzhou in China in order to promote New Delhi's strategic, economic and political interests.

A meeting of Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh approved the opening of Missions and posts in Reykjavik (Iceland), Guatemala City (Guatemala), Niamey (Niger) and Bamako (Mali), Information and Broadcasting Minister P R Dasmunsi told reporters.

He said the Cabinet also approved creation of a Consulate General and four Ambassadors in the Grade of Joint Secretaries.

"This decision will help safeguard and promote India's strategic, economic and political interests in the respective regions", he said.

Dasmunsi also said that the opening of the Missions and creation of the posts were likely to be undertaken during current financial year.