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Russia’s president, Vladimir Putin has authorized the signing of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement with Iran.
This follows a Tehran visit by the secretary of the Russian Security Council, preceded by a trip to St. Petersburg by the Iranian national security advisor.
The intensified engagement suggests that the two sides wish to move past a row over Moscow’s support for a contentious transit corridor in the South Caucasus. Also the move comes amid western pressure over alleged Iranian missile deliveries to Russia.
The exchange of visits also served as a scene-setter for Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s trip to Russia. There is speculation that the the cooperation agreement will be signed during Pezeshkian’s visit.
President Vladimir Putin described the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement with Tehran, as “expedient” and to be signed “at the highest level.”
“Our goal is to cultivate a partnership that not only withstands external challenges but also flourishes in a spirit of mutual respect and collaboration,” Pezeshkian said after a visit to Tehran by Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu, adding that cooperation can deflect sanctions imposed on both Moscow and Tehran.
On his part, Shoigu expressed support for “corridors” in relation to Azerbaijan.
The US on Sept. 10 sanctioned10 individuals and six entities based in Russia and Iran over the suspected arms deliveries, including national carrier Iran Air.
Also, Britain, France, and Germany cancelled bilateral air services arrangements with Tehran, restricting Iran Air’s ability to fly to the UK. Meanwhile, Germany announced it would “work towards” imposing sanctions on Iran Air with its E3 partners, without offering specifics.
On September the 11th, the Netherlands and the United Kingdon summoned Iran’s envoys to protest the alleged missile deliveries.
Then, on September the 12th, Teheran summoned the highest-ranking diplomats of E3 and the Netherlands in Iran.
