Hadi Beigi-Nejad, who talked to SHANA, hailed the incumbent administration and the Oil Ministry for promoting energy diplomacy.

The vice chairman of Parliament’s Energy Committee referred to oil and gas negotiations held and oil contracts executed by Iran and Russia, describing Tehran-Moscow ties as “strategic”.

He added the two countries have good relations in a number of fields, including oil and gas industry, and have made sizable investment in this sector.

Talking to SHANA on Saturday, Hossein Hosseinzadeh, also a lawmaker, called Russia a “strategic partner” of Iran in the energy sector.

He said Russia can help Iran develop its oil and gas fields and increase their output.

Russia is a big gas exporter in the world and Iran is required to utilize its capacity, added the legislator.

Owji visit to Moscow

Iranian Oil Minister Javad Owji paid a two-day visit to Moscow at the invitation of Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak to participate in the 6th Russian Energy Week International Forum, which ended Friday.

The minister said Tehran-Moscow cooperation paves the way for progress of not only the two countries, but also regional states.

Owji, who addressed a specialized session of the Forum, added a historic opportunity has been created for Iran and Russia and the two sides have become closer than ever.

Iran is the safest and cheapest route for energy transit to international waters, said Owji, underlining that global energy market cannot deny Iran’s key role.

In addition to its rich energy resources, Iran is located at a suitable geographic position, the point connecting Asia to Europe and the only land route between the Caspian Sea and the Persian Gulf, stated the minister, adding some countries around Iran are oil and gas exporters and some importers, and such conditions make it easier for Iran to play the role of an energy hub.

Considering its natural resources and northern neighbors, Iran is the leading player of energy trade in the Middle East and can turn into a gas hub, noted Owji.