Russian President Vladimir Putin has reaffirmed Moscow's nuclear cooperation with Iran, confirming that construction of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant continues despite diplomatic pressure from Washington. The statement came after high-level crisis talks with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian at the Kremlin.
Putin met with Pezeshkian on Tuesday evening on the sidelines of the 8th Summit of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum. Before addressing their broader delegations, the two presidents held a private discussion regarding the escalating conflict in the Middle East.
Putin Confirms Nuclear Cooperation
Addressing the delegations, which included Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, Rosatom nuclear chief Alexei Likhachev, and military-technical cooperation chief Dmitry Shugaev, Putin said Russia is fulfilling all its obligations under joint projects with Iran.
"Mr President, Friends, I am pleased to meet with you again – this time on the sidelines of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum," Putin said. "I believe today's event has been highly productive. Many bilateral meetings are taking place between colleagues, which is also very useful."
"As you know, you and I have just had a one-on-one discussion about the situation in the region – which, of course, cannot but cause concern, not only for us, but above all for us, as a country that works closely with Iran. We are neighbours, we have many common interests, and we seek to realise them all. We hope the situation will develop in a positive direction."
Trade Growth and Humanitarian Ties
Putin noted that Russian-Iranian trade grew by 10.4 percent over the first eight months of this year. He also highlighted that the number of Iranian students studying at Russian universities has reached about 10,000.
"For our part, we are fulfilling all the obligations we have assumed under our joint projects," Putin added. "Construction of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant continues. We are also cooperating in the humanitarian sphere."
Pezeshkian Calls for Multipolar World
In response, Pezeshkian launched a direct attack on the Trump administration's military posture, urging regional powers to freeze the United States out of security arrangements.
"I would like, first and foremost, to thank you for your hospitality," Pezeshkian said. "Our conversations are always very useful, as you support us on political and economic issues. We are truly grateful to you for your support and assistance."
"After the United States embarked on aggressive actions in the region, it became clear to everyone that we must work to shape a multipolar world," Pezeshkian continued. "A multipolar world is beneficial to us all, and this, naturally, gives us the opportunity to interact with you and with other countries that wish to remain independent and free."
Pezeshkian argued that regional problems can be resolved without US involvement, stating: "We can help each other in the scientific, economic, cultural, humanitarian and security spheres."
