Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi highlighted the readiness for enhanced collaboration between Iran and Russia, emphasizing the favorable conditions for more effective steps in areas of mutual interest. The remarks were made during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, where the leaders discussed the positive bilateral cooperation in energy, agriculture, and the knowledge-based sector.
Raisi expressed satisfaction with the growing relations, underlining the significance of cooperation with Russia in alignment with Iran's neighbor-oriented policy. Addressing regional and global developments, Raisi decried unilateralism and an unjust world order, citing ongoing concerns in Gaza as a manifestation of these issues. He condemned Israel's actions in Gaza as "genocide and crimes against humanity," urging an end to the bombardments and crimes against Palestinians.
In response, Putin highlighted the exemplary level of relations between the two countries, noting the significant presence of Russian traders in Iran's trade exhibitions. He pointed out a 20% increase in bilateral trade, amounting to an annual turnover of $5 billion in the past year, as an indicator of the determination to open a new chapter in bilateral ties. Putin also mentioned the progress in joint transportation, road, and railroad projects, as well as the continuous growth of energy sector cooperation.
The leaders affirmed their common positions on regional issues, with discussions on Palestine's matter and the situation in the Gaza Strip featuring prominently. Iran and Russia, both facing sanctions from the United States, have been strengthening political and economic ties to counteract the impact of these measures. A joint declaration of cooperation to counter sanctions and mitigate the negative impacts of unilateral coercive measures was signed by the two countries earlier in the week.
(With Agency Inputs)
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