Russian PM Mishustin says expanding economic ties with Iran a priority

Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin met with Iranian First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref on Monday on the sidelines of a Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) meeting in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, according to Russia’s RT. During the meeting, Mishustin said that expanding economic ties with Iran is a priority for Moscow and that Russia is committed to strengthening these relations.

Mishustin noted that Russia had provided extensive humanitarian assistance to Iran following what he described as the US-Israeli-imposed war against the country. He also asked Aref to convey Russian President Vladimir Putin’s greetings to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

The Russian prime minister highlighted progress on the International North-South Transport Corridor, stating that its development would help establish new production and logistics chains across Eurasia. This corridor is seen as a key route for enhancing trade connectivity between Russia, Iran, and other regional countries.

Aref arrived in the Tajik capital early Monday to attend a meeting of prime ministers from SCO member states. During his two-day visit, he is also scheduled to hold talks with several counterparts attending the gathering. The SCO, which includes Russia, Iran, and other Eurasian nations, serves as a platform for discussing regional cooperation and economic integration.

According to Mehr News, the meeting between Mishustin and Aref underscores the ongoing efforts by both countries to deepen their bilateral relationship despite international sanctions. The report by Mehr News added that the discussions focused on economic cooperation and regional connectivity.