The two leaders discussed key issues of Russian-Iranian relations, particularly prospects for expanding trade and economic ties and energy cooperation.
The presidents of Russia and Iran also exchanged views on pressing international issues, primarily the settlement of Iran’s nuclear issue, assistance in resolving regional conflicts and countering terrorist threats.
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President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr President, friends, colleagues, please allow me to warmly welcome you to Russia.
I want to thank you for making the decision to come here and participate in the BRICS events.
Iran is our traditional reliable partner in the region; our relations are developing positively. In spite of all the difficulties in the global economy and the well-known limitations, last year our turnover grew slightly, and this trend has been maintained in the first quarter of this year. Our foreign ministries are working actively to coordinate their positions and we are developing inter-parliamentary ties.
Overall, we can say that we are happy with how our relations are developing, but there are always issues that require special attention on our part, and I am very happy for the opportunity to discuss them today.
Welcome!
President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Hassan Rouhani (retranslated): Mr President, I am very happy to be in this wonderful city of Ufa today. Naturally, these days are quite difficult and busy for me, but regardless, I could not fail to accept your invitation to visit Ufa.
In the last two years, we have made many steps toward one another. I am confident that with the political will from both sides, we will be able to move our bilateral cooperation forward in all areas. I am certain that at this meeting – as at our previous ones – we will be able to make real progress on issues that need further coordination.
And now, I would like to give you the traditional Iranian wish – “Do not get tired!” – since you have just held three very significant sessions in a row. And this also reflects Russia’s outstanding role not only in regional affairs, but also in international issues. The Islamic Republic of Iran is interested in developing and deepening cooperation with all three organisations.
We also feel it is our obligation to note and thank you for the efforts by the Russian side that it has consistently made to move talks on the Iranian nuclear programme forward, as well as Mr Lavrov’s personal efforts.
