Iran is expected to sign a comprehensive cooperation agreement with Russia on January 17 during the visit of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Moscow, government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani said on Saturday.
The move signals an attempt by Iran to strengthen its relationship with Russia, amid the growing political changes in the region, according to observers.
Mohajerani stated that the agreement with Russia follows discussions held during the recent meeting between Pezeshkian and President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in Kazan.
“We anticipate the president's visit to Moscow, during which we hope to see progress on two key issues: the North-South Corridor, which is already underway, and the plan to transfer Russian gas to Iran—both of which have been key points of agreement between the two sides,” Mohajerani said, according to Iran’s ISNA news agency.
The spokeswoman pointed to the importance of developing Iran's political and economic relations with East Asia.
“Iran's extensive relations with eastern countries are constantly growing,” she said, noting that since the Iranian Revolution, Iranian presidents have visited Russia 10 times while Russian presidents have visited Iran five times, reflecting the good relations between the two countries.
Also, Mohajerani said similar to all major deals, the comprehensive cooperation agreement with Russia needs Parliament’s approval.
She said the agreement will undergo parliamentary review to protect national interests, affirming that Iran has learned from past experiences and is determined to avoid unfavorable treaties.
The spokeswoman then revealed that Iran is enhancing its economic and political ties with BRICS nations, particularly China, India, and Russia while maintaining a balanced foreign policy that includes potential engagement with Western countries.
According to Mohajerani, the Iranian government is also actively pursuing the development of the Astara-Rasht railway, with land acquisition and other preparatory work already underway. She noted that this project underscores Iran’s commitment to leveraging its geostrategic position, reminiscent of its historical role in facilitating trade along the Silk Road.
Mohajerani highlighted Iran’s strong economic and political ties with BRICS nations, which account for 40% of the world’s population.
Also, the spokeswoman said Iran is taking steps to address barriers to foreign investment.
She said the government is working to identify and remove obstacles, especially for projects involving BRICS nations and European investors.
Mohajerani then reiterated Iran’s commitment to a balanced foreign policy and highlighted Iran’s guiding principles of “dignity, wisdom, and expediency.”
The spokeswoman stressed that regional cooperation with neighbors remains one of Iran’s top priorities.
She also emphasized her country’s readiness for constructive negotiations with Western nations on lifting sanctions and advancing its nuclear program.
