Islam Times - Iran, Russia to Boost Defense Ties: Araqchi

Islam Times - A key component of the new strategic deal between Iran and Russia is the enhancement of security and defense cooperation to ensure regional and international peace, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said.

"One of the important aspects of the agreement is strengthening cooperation in the field of security and defense. Iran and Russia have valuable experience in combating terrorism and extremism. Such a partnership aimed at strengthening regional and global stability meets not only the interests of the two countries, but also the interests of world peace," Araqchi said in an article published by Sputnik on Wednesday, January 15.

The Iranian foreign minister emphasized that the agreement does not imply a military union.

"It is an entirely comprehensive agreement. For instance, it is not an agreement on a military union, with a particular target, but entirely comprehensive and covers all aspects.”

The interaction between Russia and Iran in the sphere of defense does not threaten anyone, he added.

"Contrary to the claims of some media outlets, this interaction is not aimed at threatening, but at strengthening common security and protecting human values," Araqchi said.

The agreement between Russia and Iran covers all aspects of cooperation, he noted.

"The signing of the agreement between Iran and Russia for 20 years is not just a political document, but also a roadmap for the future. This agreement covers all aspects of cooperation between the two countries," Araqchi said.

The document will include economy, technology and humanitarian cooperation, the minister explained. The agreement also seeks to simplify travel conditions for tourists in order to strengthen cultural cooperation.

"One of the underestimated aspects of international relations is the importance of cultural exchanges. The strategic agreement will simplify travel conditions for tourists and create joint cultural programs, allowing the two countries to better understand each other," Araqchi said.

The new strategic agreement between Russia and Iran provides for completion of the North-South transport corridor and increase in the volume of trade as part of strengthening economic ties between the two countries, the Iranian minister said in the article.

"This massive transport project connects Iran to Russia and from there to Europe and Asia. With the completion of this corridor, trade routes between the two countries will become shorter and costs will be reduced," the article read.

The new agreement also aims at accelerating the growth of trade volume between Iran and Russia, which increased by 15% last year, Araqchi said, adding that the document covers all economic aspects, including common markets development and infrastructure projects' investments.

"Iran and Russia, as two major powers in the oil and gas industry, can cooperate with each other in the production, transmission and export of energy," Araqchi stated.