Zarif says Russia always standing by Iran in difficult times

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Tehran and Moscow enjoy strategic ties, adding that Russia has always stood by Iran in difficult situation.

Speaking to reporters upon his arrival at Moscow airport, Zarif reminded the fact that Iranian delegation’s visit to Moscow indicates strategic relations between two countries.

Based on Iranian and Russian presidents’ policies, both sides have now established new relations, he added.

Tehran will never forget those friends which were standing by it in difficulties, Zarif said, adding that developing bilateral ties and regional and international issues will be discussed during the trip.

Referring to the presence of Iranian Energy Minister Reza Ardakanian as head of Iran-Russia economic commission, he said during this trip which is underway on the eve of Iran-Turkey-Russia trilateral meeting in Nur Sultan, both sides will review coordination in regional issues, especially those related to Yemen, Syria, Afghanistan  and Israel aggressions on Lebanon as well.  

He added that he had earlier held talks with Chinese officials as regard Iran nuclear deal developments.

Zarif heading a high-ranking delegation arrived in Moscow on Monday.

Zarif is to meet his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov on Monday to review the latest developments about implementation of the JCPOA, the Persian Gulf, Syria, Afghanistan as well as Yemen.

During the visit, two sides are expected to discuss mutual cooperation in the fields of economy, commerce, energy, transportation and culture.

The volume of Iran-Russia trade exchange has registered a 17 percent growth in recent years.

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