According to the report, Pezeshkian spoke Wednesday, Feb. 18, in a meeting with Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilyev and his delegation. He said relations between Tehran and Moscow in the new phase of cooperation are “exceptional and expanding.”

Referring to multiple meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin since the start of his administration, Pezeshkian said important and strategic decisions had been made that serve the shared interests of both countries and open new horizons for bilateral ties.

He reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to implementing the comprehensive strategic cooperation plan with Russia, saying progress is being pursued in transportation, energy, oil and gas, agriculture and food products, as well as defense and security cooperation.

Pezeshkian said he personally reviews progress on the agreements weekly and that the ministers of oil, agriculture and energy have been tasked with closely following up and accelerating joint commitments.

He said completing joint projects, particularly in transit corridors, would pave the way for a new chapter and a leap in all-around relations between the two countries. He expressed hope that expanded Iran-Russia engagement would have lasting positive effects on the regional economy.

Pezeshkian also criticized unilateral approaches by some powers, saying regional countries should expand ties in a way that eliminates the need for interference by extra-regional actors.

Iran-Russia strategic ties firm and enduring

Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilyev conveyed greetings from Russia’s president and described the results of the 19th Joint Economic Cooperation Commission as positive and productive.

He said the past year had been fruitful for Tehran-Moscow relations, highlighting the strengthening of friendly ties and the expansion of joint cooperation. Tsivilyev said the Russian president considers relations with Iran highly important.

The Russian minister also expressed condolences from the Russian government and people over recent incidents that resulted in the deaths of Iranian citizens.

Tsivilyev said Russia would continue its broad cooperation and communications with Iran, adding that no one would be able to disrupt the strategic relationship between the two countries.