Russia-Iran pact causes concern
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masud Pezeshkian today signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement, which also includes security and defense cooperation.
The signing ceremony took place in the Kremlin's Malachite Hall after several hours of negotiations between delegations from the two countries.
“Our country attaches great importance to strengthening friendly and neighborly relations between Russia and Iran,” said Mr. Putin, stressing that this cooperation is based on equality and mutual respect. The head of the Kremlin, who has signed similar agreements with China and North Korea in recent years, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome of the negotiations with Mr. Pezeshkian, which he said had taken place in a constructive atmosphere.
He highlighted the increase in bilateral trade, energy agreements and Russia's commitment to building two new reactors at the Bushehr nuclear power plant. He emphasized that Moscow and Teheran share common positions on many international issues, including unilateral Western sanctions. A rapprochement and strategic agreement that has triggered concern in the global community.
(MH with Ambar/Source: Agence/Photo: DPA/ Russian Look/Kremlin Pool)