Shahbaz Hasanpour Biglari, commenting on Iran-Russia strategic relations — especially in the economic sector — said both countries have experience dealing with sanctions and should share those experiences across sectors, including oil, banking and finance.

He also pointed to the presence of Russian officials in Iran despite ongoing sanctions, adding that “notable measures” have been taken in Iran’s oil and gas sector under current conditions and deserve recognition. He said the recent meeting of the Iran-Russia Joint Economic Committee in Tehran reflects the country’s “dynamic and active” economic diplomacy.

Hasanpour Biglari described the Oil Ministry’s policies to expand regional energy cooperation, particularly with Russia, as “defensible and positive,” stressing that active energy diplomacy and expanded ties with neighboring countries could generate lasting advantages for Iran.

He added that Iran-Russia cooperation has a strategic character and said the level of coordination between Tehran and Moscow is “acceptable and progressing” under current circumstances.

The 19th Iran-Russia Joint Commission began its work in Tehran on Feb. 16 with expert-level meetings and concluded on Feb. 18 with the signing of one memorandum of understanding and four cooperation agreements.