WANA (Apr 18) – The Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran stated: Although we have serious doubts about the intentions and motivations of the American side, we will participate in tomorrow’s negotiations with full seriousness and determination.

 

Joint Press Conference in Moscow

On Friday, “Seyyed Abbas Araghchi,” Iran’s Foreign Minister, spoke at a joint press conference with Russian Foreign Minister “Sergey Lavrov” in Moscow, discussing various bilateral and international issues.

 

At the beginning of the conference, Araghchi said: Yesterday, I had a very good and important meeting with the Russian President and delivered a written message from the Supreme Leader. This message is highly significant, covering the dimensions of Iran-Russia relations as well as regional matters.

 

He described the meeting with President Putin as constructive and said that Iran-Russia relations are moving in the right direction.

 

Bilateral Engagement and Future Plans

Araghchi added: In today’s meeting with Mr. Lavrov, we reviewed a wide range of issues. Next week, the Iran-Russia Joint Economic Commission will convene in Moscow.

 

He also announced that the Iranian President has invited President Putin to visit Iran within the framework of bilateral relations, and we hope this visit will take place within this calendar year. We await the confirmation of a date soon.

 

Russia’s Complementary Role in Future Agreements

Referring to discussions about indirect negotiations between Iran and the U.S., Araghchi said: We are satisfied with Russia’s role in the JCPOA and the constructive contribution it made in the past. We expect Russia to continue playing a complementary role in any new agreement. I’m pleased Mr. Lavrov assured me of their continued constructive support.

 

He continued: We keep both China and Russia regularly informed of developments. Despite serious doubts about the American side’s intentions, we will participate in tomorrow’s talks with full seriousness and commitment to achieving a peaceful solution regarding Iran’s peaceful nuclear activities. If the other side demonstrates similar will and avoids unrealistic, impractical, and irrational demands, reaching an agreement is possible.

 

Listening to Negotiating Positions

He stressed: The positions presented at the negotiating table are what matter. We are waiting to hear the other side’s stance. If seriousness is shown and there are no unreasonable demands, reaching an agreement is achievable.

 

Free Trade Agreement with Eurasia Coming Soon

Araghchi noted: The Free Trade Agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union will be implemented within the next few months. This marks a turning point in Iran’s economic relations with the region, including Russia. Our trade relations with Russia are growing rapidly and will expand further with this agreement.

 

He also referred to Iran-Russia cooperation within international organizations, such as the United Nations, the UN Security Council, BRICS, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, stating: Russia had a successful BRICS presidency last year and held several important meetings.

 

Joint Economic Commission and Strategic Projects

Araghchi announced: Next week, the Iran-Russia Joint Economic Cooperation Commission will be held with a large delegation of public and private sector economic actors from Iran participating.

 

He highlighted key joint projects, including the North-South Corridor, and stressed the commitment of both countries to its swift implementation.

 

Forced Displacement in Gaza is Unacceptable

On the topic of Palestine, Araghchi said: We held consultations on Palestine and the crimes committed in Gaza. The genocide occurring in Gaza is happening under the silence of Western countries. Any plan for the forced displacement of Gaza’s people is unacceptable.

 

Indirect Talks with the U.S. Continue in Muscat

Araghchi noted that current negotiations with the Americans are indirect. Diplomatic channels remain open, and indirect talks are not complicated. Agreement can be reached through them.

 

He emphasized: In the first round of indirect talks between Iran and the U.S. in Muscat, we saw some degree of seriousness on the American side. We will only discuss nuclear issues, and no other topics are included. As I’ve said repeatedly—if the Americans are serious and avoid unrealistic and illogical demands, an agreement is possible.

 

Adapting Economic Cooperation Amid Sanctions

Araghchi also stated: Iran has structured its economic cooperation with Russia in light of ongoing sanctions. While we do not recognize the legitimacy of these sanctions, we are working with the “Group of Friends in Defense of the UN Charter,” which recently met in Moscow, to counter them.

 

Regional Issues Discussed

He added that today’s talks covered various regional issues, including Palestine, Israeli crimes in Gaza, Syria, the South Caucasus, Afghanistan, and also referred to U.S. aggression in Yemen, describing it as a crime.

 

Strategic Iran-Russia Partnership

Araghchi concluded by reaffirming: Iran-Russia relations have been elevated through the signing of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty. These developments will not affect our ties. Our relationship is strategic, and both countries are committed to it.

 

He noted that the treaty offers a 20-year vision and is currently under review by the Iranian Parliament for ratification. We hope it will be signed soon.