Russian President Sees Iran “Reliable” Ally


TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed Iran as a “reliable and dependable” ally in the region and the world, stressing that Moscow does not betray its friends like other “certain” countries, without directly naming the US.

Iran is an independent and firm state with a very good prospect, the Russian president said in Monday meeting with Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei in Tehran.

Putin noted that it was a delight to meet Ayatollah Khamenei, praising the Leader for his valuable experiences.

Putin underscored that Russia is committed not to “stab its partners in the back” or take covert actions against its friends like some others, saying any possible disagreement should be settled through talks.

He further hailed stronger cooperation with Iran in the aerospace industry and technological fields, as well as security issues and settlement of the regional and international conflicts.

On Syria, Putin said Russia and Iran share views, reiterating that resolving crisis in the Arab country should take place via political approaches and respect for the Syrian nation’s will.

He stressed that Russia is aware of the US objectives is Syria, saying Washington is pursuing the negotiating table to achieve the objectives it has failed to obtain militarily.

The Russian president travelled to Iran to attend the 3rd GECF (Gas Exporting Countries Forum) Summit.