Thu Sep 19 07:27:35 UTC 2024: ## Russia and Iran to Sign Strategic Partnership Agreement: Putin Approves Deal
**Moscow, Russia -** Russian President Vladimir Putin has approved a proposal from the country’s foreign ministry to sign a strategic partnership agreement with Iran. This follows a recent visit to Tehran by Russia’s Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu, who reaffirmed Moscow’s commitment to cooperation with Iran on regional issues.
Putin’s approval, announced through a decree issued on Wednesday, comes as no surprise following the extensive discussions on a new long-term agreement between the two countries. Negotiations began under the administration of former Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, with President Ebrahim Raeisi presenting a draft for a two-decade collaboration agreement to Putin in January 2022.
The new agreement, which is expected to be signed in the coming months, will build upon the existing 10-year Treaty on the Basis of Mutual Relations and Principles of Cooperation between Iran and Russia, signed in 2001. This treaty was extended twice, last expiring in 2026. The upcoming agreement is expected to further cement cooperation between Russia and Iran in various sectors, including political, economic, and security issues.
“The signing of such an agreement would be expedient,” stated the Russian presidential decree, although the exact date of its conclusion remains unspecified. Putin indicated he plans to meet with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian at the upcoming BRICS summit in Kazan next month, adding that a separate visit by the Iranian president is expected for the formal signing of the comprehensive cooperation agreement.
The move comes amid growing tensions between Russia and the West, and follows similar agreements signed by Iran with China and other regional powers. Experts believe the strategic partnership will deepen the already strong ties between Russia and Iran, fostering increased collaboration in key areas such as energy, trade, and military cooperation.
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