Russia and Iran have moved a step closer to strengthening their relationship by signing a 20-year “strategic partnership” treaty that will enhance cooperation in key areas, including defense, technology, energy, and trade.
The landmark agreement was announced during Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s official visit to Moscow, marking a new chapter in bilateral relations between the two nations.
Increased Military Cooperation
Under the treaty, Russia and Iran have agreed to closer military collaboration to address mutual security threats. The agreement covers commitments to conducting joint military exercises on both countries’ territories as well as in other areas outside their territories while agreeing to a mutual understanding preventing their territories from being used to take actions harmful to the other.
This is an indication of a growing alliance between the two countries, particularly in the aftermath of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, leading to its full-scale geopolitical isolation.
Iran already is a vital military supplier to Russia, including drones and ballistic missiles, at least according to Western intelligence. The new deal cements that cooperation and advances their strategic convergence.
Strategic Emphasis On Energy And Trade
Beyond defense, the agreement stresses energy and trade cooperation. Russian President Vladimir Putin said during a joint press conference with President Pezeshkian that Moscow is considering building new nuclear power units in Iran, which could strengthen Tehran’s energy capacities.
More talks are being made about a proposed gas pipeline from Russia to Iran, which will pass through Azerbaijan if implemented. Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev has said that this pipeline could help Russia deliver up to 55 billion cubic meters of gas annually to Iran.
This project represents Moscow’s efforts to reroute its energy exports after the European Union countries have dramatically reduced their Russian gas imports following the Ukraine war.
A Strengthened Alliance Amid Global Shifts
Russia’s growing alliance with Iran underscores its pivot toward non-Western partners, including China and North Korea, as it navigates sanctions and diplomatic fallout from its actions in Ukraine. The treaty further cements this partnership, with both nations aligning their strategic goals to counter Western influence and enhance their regional power.
President Pezeshkian termed the agreement as a milestone in Iran-Russia relations, as it marked the beginning of a “new chapter” of cooperation. Enhanced trade opportunities, especially in energy, are expected to play a crucial role in enhancing economic ties between the two nations.
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