By: Mohsen Pakaein
The relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and Russia have been on a strategic path in recent years, and the existence of a 20-year comprehensive cooperation document has given these relations special importance. This strategic position requires that the two countries have continuous and targeted consultations at different stages and with short intervals. The recent visit of Iranian Foriegn Minister Abbas Araghchi to Russia can also be evaluated in this framework; a trip that can lead to greater coordination between Tehran and Moscow in bilateral, regional and international areas.
In the bilateral dimension, the most important axis of cooperation in the current conditions is Russia's participation in the construction of the Rasht-Astara railway; a key project in completing the North-South Corridor. The Rasht section to the Caspian Sea port has been constructed, and the continuation of the route requires accelerated implementation operations. The main obstacle so far has been the issue of acquiring some houses and rural lands along the route of this railway, which, according to the government, is scheduled to be resolved by the end of this Iranian year. Of the remaining 130 kilometers, only 60 to 70 kilometers require land acquisition, and the remaining sections are ready for implementation. If this obstacle is removed, Russia can quickly begin implementation operations to achieve the North-South rail connection as soon as possible.
At the regional level, the situation in Palestine, and especially Gaza, is one of the most serious common concerns of Iran and Russia. The violation of the ceasefire by the Zionist regime and the intensification of attacks, especially on the eve of the winter season, have increased the risk of a widespread humanitarian disaster. As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, Russia, along with countries such as China and with the support of Iran, can play an effective role in preventing the escalation of the crisis and trying to stop the aggressions; an issue that has affected not only the stability of the region, but also world peace.
In the international dimension, the US aggression against Venezuela's territory in Latin America, under the false pretext of fighting drugs, is another serious concern. The threat of a ground attack could ignite a new crisis in Latin America, a crisis whose end is uncertain and which threatens world peace. In such circumstances, the role of countries committed to multilateralism, the independence of countries and world peace, especially permanent members of the Security Council, including Russia, becomes even more important.
On the Iranian nuclear issue, Russia and China, as two permanent members of the Security Council, have always defended the positions of the Islamic Republic of Iran and recognized Iran’s inalienable right to peaceful nuclear energy. It is natural that this issue should also be raised in the talks between Tehran and Moscow so that this support continues in the United Nations and other international institutions, while at the same time, the International Atomic Energy Agency distances itself from political approaches and adheres to its professional duties as stipulated in its statute.
In addition to the aforementioned areas, the issue of Afghanistan, ensuring regional security, combating terrorism, and combating drug trafficking are also among the areas in which Iran and Russia can have closer cooperation; cooperation that will ultimately lead to strengthening regional stability and promoting the common interests of the two countries.
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