Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized Iran’s commitment to deepening relations with Russia and China during the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, on Wednesday October 23. Pezeshkian met with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss expanding economic and strategic cooperation between the two nations. According to the Institute For The Study Of War, the leaders are expected to finalize and sign a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement, with Putin authorizing the deal on September 18.
For Iran, formalizing this agreement with Russia is crucial as the nation seeks broader international support amid disruptions to its proxy networks caused by Israeli military actions in Gaza and Lebanon.
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Hezbollah, a key Iranian ally, has seen its capabilities diminished by Israeli strikes, which has weakened Iran’s primary deterrent against Israeli attacks. Russia’s stance against Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities highlights the importance of strong Russo-Iranian ties.
Pezeshkian’s foreign policy continues the “neighborhood policy” initiated by former President Ebrahim Raisi, focusing on fostering relations with regional and international partners to counter the impact of international sanctions and strengthen Iran’s economy. As Russia’s offensive campaign in Ukraine escalates, Russo-Iranian cooperation has grown, particularly with Iran’s military support for Russia in the conflict.
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Pezeshkian also held talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping on October 23, though specific details of their discussions have not been made public. The meeting likely centered on regional developments and the expanding Sino-Iranian strategic partnership, including Iran’s oil exports to China. Additionally, Iranian Energy Minister Abbas Aliabadi engaged in discussions on trade and foreign investment with countries involved in China’s Belt and Road Initiative during a forum in Qingdao, China.
These diplomatic efforts highlight Iran’s strategy of strengthening ties with global powers like Russia and China to enhance economic resilience and mitigate the effects of international isolation.
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