Iran’s President Rouhani Describes Russia as “Strategic Partner”
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Wednesday voiced Tehran’s eagerness to further boost ties between Tehran and Moscow, and described the two countries as “strategic partners”.
Speaking at the meeting with the visiting Russian President Vladimir Putin in Tehran, President Rouhani said Russia is a “friend, neighbor and strategic partner” of Iran.
The Islamic Republic of Iran is determined to develop and strengthen inclusive relations and cooperation with Russia.
"Good agreements between the two countries in various sectors, including in the energy, peaceful nuclear technologies and transportation and transit, have been made, which should be further stepped up in the implementation phase".
Rouhani emphasized the importance of the development of Iran-Russia cooperation and economic and trade relations, saying, "Tehran welcomes active participation of Russian investors and private sector to participate in major infrastructure projects, including in industry, energy, railway construction and development and the North-South Corridor".
Pointing to the role played by Moscow regarding Iran 2015 nuclear deal with six world powers, Rouhani said, "The role of Russia in the direction of consolidation and sustainability of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and fulfilment of its obligations by all negotiating parties is also important."
The JCPOA is multilateral agreement and its preservation is very important for regional and international peace and stability, he noted.
Elsewhere, the Iranian president referred to the role of Iran and Russia in the fight against terrorism in Syria, and noted, "The cooperation between Iran and Russia has had a great impact on the process of fighting terrorism in the region, and these collaborations and consultations are also very important in the final stages of the fight".
Also at the meeting, Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated that Iran was a neighbor and a strategic partner of Russia, acknowledging Tehran's invitation for the tripartite summit of Iran, Russia and Azerbaijan.
"We have many common interests for developing our relations and cooperation."
Referring to the necessity of developing cooperation between Iran, Russia and the Azerbaijan Republic in transportation, transit and North-South Corridor, the Russian president said, "The tripartite summit of Iranian, Russian and Azerbaijani presidents can lead to the development of relations and cooperation in the region in this field".
As regards Iran nuclear deal, Putin said the IAEA is the only reference to declare Iran's adherence to JCPOA.
"Not adhering to international obligations by some countries is by no means acceptable, and we believe that unilateral violation of the JCPOA will not be acceptable under any pretext".
