Russia, Iran Strengthen Ties To Counter Western Sanctions

The Russian Federation and the Islamic Republic of Iran have strengthened their collaboration to counter the impacts of the crippling sanctions imposed on the two countries by Western nations following increasing rifts.

Russia and Iran have recently strengthened their political and economic relations in response to the US sanctions.

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian made this known in his remarks during a meeting with visiting Secretary of the Russian Federation Security Council Sergei Shoigu. He noted that it has become incumbent on the two countries to strengthen cooperation between Tehran and Moscow to mitigate the impacts of Western sanctions and “unjust” measures imposed on both nations.

The Iranian leader, who emphasised the background of “constructive” relations between Iran and Russia, said bilateral ties would be developed on a “permanent, continuous, and lasting path,” according to a statement on his office’s website.

He affirmed that his administration is committed to advancing cooperation and enhancing the relationship between the two nations.

Mr Shoigu, for his part, conveyed a message from Russian President Vladimir Putin, affirming that Moscow’s position on cooperation with Iran on regional issues remains unchanged.

Local media reported that earlier in the day, Mr Shoigu met with the Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, Ali Ahmadian, to review the agreements between the two countries.

The US and its Western allies have imposed a raft of sanctions on Iran over its nuclear programme. The West has often accused Iran of plotting to destabilise the Middle East by using its proxy elements, especially in the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

And against Russia, the US and its NATO allies have slammed varied sanctions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the deadly war it has elicited, which has caused massive casualties and property on both sides.