Photo credit: kremlin.ru (CC BY 4.0)
Russian President Vladimir Putin held his first meeting with his Iranian counterpart Ibrahim Raisi, Channel One reports. The Iranian president took office six months ago, this is his first visit to Moscow. Prior to this, the presidents communicated only by phone and video.
According to Vladimir Putin, recently the trade turnover between the countries has grown by 40%. He is confident that Russian-Iranian cooperation has great prospects. It is planned to develop ties in culture, defense, the fight against terrorism, and space exploration. Tehran handed over to Russia a draft agreement on strategic cooperation for 20 years ahead.
Raisi called Russia a friendly country. He assured that there are no restrictions in Iran for the development of relations with Moscow. The largest project that has united the two countries is the construction of a nuclear power plant in Bushehr. The first power unit has already started operating, a contract has been signed for the construction of the next two. In addition, Iran could acquire billions of dollars worth of Russian weapons.
The Russian leader thanked his colleague for cooperation in resolving the conflict in Syria. He noted that this allowed Damascus to cope with the threat of international terrorism. Vladimir Putin suggested discussing the situation in Afghanistan and the deal around the Iranian nuclear program.
The visit of the President of Iran is planned for two days. Ibrahim Raisi intends to visit the cathedral mosque and meet with the Muslim clergy. The President of Iran is scheduled to address the deputies of the State Duma.
