Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak announced the figure on Friday in Moscow during his meeting with Iranian Minister of Petroleum Javad Owji who serves as the head of the Iranian side of Iran-Russia Economic Cooperation Joint Commission as well.

Novak added that during the period, Russia exports to Iran rose by 77 percent while imports went up by 13 percent.

He also expressed satisfaction with launching direct flights between Tehran and Grozny, the capital of the republic of Chechnya. Iranian Mahan Air has started direct flights from Tehran to the Russian city and vice versa since June 10.  

“I am sure that launching these flights will provide enough incentive for tourists to travel between Iran and the North Caucasus region.”, he said.  

During the meeting, Novak introduced Sergei Tsivilev, Minister of Energy of the Russian Federation as his successor and the head of the Russian side of the Iran-Russia Economic Cooperation Joint Commission. Novak held the post for 3 years.