Mohsen Paknejad spoke to reporters on Friday on the sidelines of the 18th Iran-Russia Joint Economic Commission meeting, emphasizing that since the signing of the strategic partnership agreement between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Russian Federation, the joint economic cooperation meetings have gained greater significance.

These discussions are paving the way for extensive collaboration in sectors including energy, healthcare, agriculture, banking, and finance.

He stressed that both sides are seriously committed to achieving tangible results, adding that the meeting was not merely a formal or administrative session but aimed at reaching conclusions and launching projects as soon as possible.

When asked about gas cooperation with Russia, Paknejad noted that Iran has maintained extensive energy collaborations with Russian companies, particularly in upstream oil industries and technology. He added that gas trade was a key topic in discussions with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, and Iran is awaiting Russia’s response to finalize certain agreements.

Paknejad also mentioned that several memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with major Russian companies in upstream industries are expected to be finalized into contracts soon, with operations commencing afterward.

Regarding the gas transfer route from Russia to Iran, he confirmed that the previously signed agreement outlines annual imports of 55 billion cubic meters of gas. After evaluating transfer routes, the parties agreed on a land route via Azerbaijan.

The minister stated that Russian gas will be delivered to Iran in the Astara region, with necessary coordination between Russia and Azerbaijan underway. He added that the project will include a second phase, which will be finalized in the future.

Paknejad described the meetings as friendly and constructive, expressing hope that—with trust in God—these discussions would yield benefits for the honorable people of Iran.