Moscow anticipates the imminent signing of a comprehensive cooperation agreement with Iran, as stated by Deputy Russian Foreign Minister Andrei Rudenko in an interview with RIA news agency. Rudenko emphasized that the text of the agreement is nearing completion, with all necessary clauses agreed upon.
This announcement follows an earlier suspension of agreement negotiations in June, although Iran refuted any hiatus. In 2001, Russia and Iran inked a 20-year strategic agreement that was automatically extended by five years in 2020. Consequently, both nations pledged to develop a new pact in 2020.
The 2001 accord encompassed cooperation in security, energy projects (including nuclear energy and power plant construction), industry, and technology. Specifics regarding the upcoming agreement remain scarce.
Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and subsequent sanctions imposed on Moscow by Ukraine's allies, Russia and Iran have strengthened their economic, military, and energy ties. This enhanced cooperation serves as a response to the international isolation faced by both nations.