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Russia and Iran Sign 20-Year Strategic Partnership, Enhancing Defense and Trade Ties

Jan 17, 2025, 02:35 PM

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Moscow on Friday and signed a 20-year comprehensive strategic partnership agreement aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two nations. The treaty, which replaces the 2001 cooperation agreement between Iran and Russia, encompasses various sectors including defense, security, trade, energy, science, technology, and culture. Unlike Russia's agreements with North Korea and Belarus, the new treaty does not include a mutual defense clause, but both nations agreed not to assist any aggressor against either party. During the signing ceremony at the Kremlin, Putin emphasized that the new agreement is a 'breakthrough document' that sets 'ambitious goals' for sustainable development of Russia and Iran. Pezeshkian highlighted that the agreement would provide significant momentum for bilateral relations. Key points of the agreement include commitments to enhance defense and military cooperation, intelligence sharing, joint military exercises, and efforts to combat international terrorism. The nations also aim to expand cooperation in the energy sector, including oil and gas, and promote trade in national currencies. The strategic partnership is seen as a move by both countries to strengthen their positions internationally and counteract Western pressures.