Putin and Pezeshkian Discuss Strategic Partnership Amid Middle East Violence

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian met to discuss escalating violence in the Middle East and the signing of a strategic partnership agreement. They highlighted the strong bilateral relations between their nations and condemned Israel’s military actions in Lebanon. Their diplomatic meeting signifies the growing collaboration between Russia and Iran, especially since the Ukraine conflict.

In a significant diplomatic encounter, Russian President Vladimir Putin convened with Iran’s newly inaugurated President Masoud Pezeshkian amidst a climate of heightened violence in the Middle East. This meeting took place on the sidelines of a regional summit in Turkmenistan, where both leaders expressed their mutual concerns regarding the escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran, as well as their affiliated militia groups. As the upcoming signing of a strategic partnership agreement looms, Pezeshkian expressed aspirations to finalize this accord at the BRICS summit, scheduled for October 22-24 in Russia. During their discussions, President Putin noted the alignment of Moscow and Tehran’s views on various international matters, stating, “Relations with Iran are a priority for us. They are developing very successfully.” In a corresponding sentiment, Pezeshkian asserted that economic and cultural ties are being fortified daily. He also condemned Israel’s aggressive actions in Lebanon, urging an end to its attacks on civilians and attributing support for such actions to the United States and Europe. Additionally, the meeting occurred against the backdrop of increasing military engagement by Israeli forces in southern Lebanon as they confront Hezbollah, which receives support from Iran. The diplomatic relationship between Russia and Iran has substantially deepened since the onset of the Ukraine conflict in 2022, with the US alleging that Iran has provided military supplies to Russia, a claim Tehran disputes. Upon the conference’s commencement, President Putin articulated his vision for a “new world order” aimed at fostering solidarity among Moscow’s allies against Western influences, advocating for broad international dialogue on this emerging multipolar landscape across several forums, including BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, and others.

The meeting between President Putin and President Pezeshkian takes place amid a volatile geopolitical landscape marked by growing tensions between Israel and Iran. Since the Ukraine conflict begun, Russia and Iran have fostered stronger ties in response to Western sanctions and isolation. Israel’s military activities in Lebanese territories further complicate the regional dynamics. The anticipated strategic partnership agreement underscores the evolving collaboration between these two nations, particularly in the face of perceived external threats from the US and its allies.

In summation, the meeting between Presidents Putin and Pezeshkian highlights the increasingly close relationship between Russia and Iran against the backdrop of regional turmoil. Their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties through a strategic partnership reflects a shared strategic interest in countering Western influence in the region. By addressing pressing issues such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and fostering economic and cultural cooperation, both leaders aim to consolidate their positions on the international stage.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com