On Tuesday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov paid a working visit to Tehran upon the invitation of his Iranian counterpart, Javad Zarif. During his visit, the Russian FM came together with Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif and President Hassan Rouhani. The visit was announced by the Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova on April 2.
According to the spokesperson’s statement, implementing joint energy and transport projects, ways to improve cooperation in cultural and humanitarian issues are on the Russian FM’s agenda. International issues, including the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), Syria, Afghanistan, and Yemen, are also issues that Lavrov will exchange views with the Iranian officials, the statement added.
Within the scope of his Iran visit, Foreign Minister Lavrov met with the Iranian President Hassan Rouhani. It was reported that in the meeting, that the Iranian President highlighted the need for improving cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the military and defense fields. Emphasizing the significance of regional cooperation to ensure peace and stability in the region, President Rouhani called to stand against the US unilateralism and interference in regional affairs. The Iranian President also praised Russia’s support for the nuclear talks and the efforts to revive the JCPOA.
Speaking on his part, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov notified his country’s readiness to boost the cooperation with Iran in every possible field, including defense and military. There are many common goals between the two countries in terms of regional and international collaboration, Lavrov said. Touching upon the ongoing nuclear talks in Vienna, Lavrov stated that the only solution is the US’ return to the JCPOA in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2231, without any condition.
After his meeting with the Iranian president, Sergey Lavrov also met with his Iranian counterpart, Javad Zarif. Speaking at the joint press conference after the meeting, the Russian FM condemned the latest move of the European Union, which imposed sanctions on eight Iranian officials and three entities. Lavrov stated that the latest EU move would undermine the negotiations which are ongoing in Vienna to revive the 2015 nuclear accord.
