Russian and Iranian governments forge stronger ties

BABOLSAR, Iran - A top Russian government official has vowed his country will cement energy ties with Iran, despite threats by the U.S. which is intent on enforcing its sanctions.

Russian Commercial Attachée to Iran Rostam Zhiganshin said Monday energy is the priority for mutual cooperation between the two countries, and this cooperation will continue vigorously without being affected by external influence.

Zhiganshin was addressing the 18th summit of Heads of Chambers of Commerce of the Caspian Sea Littoral States in Babolsar.

"A joint meeting will be held with Russia's state and private companies in Iran to expand cooperation and deepen ties," he said.

"The second international conference of the North Caucus will also be held with the participation of Iran and Russia, and the meetings show that the two countries have a strong will to expand bilateral trade and economic relations." h

"The conditions for the establishment of commercial and economic relations between Iran and Russia are more than ever, and we must benefit from these opportunities for mutual economic goals," Zhiganshin added.

He went on to say barter was the best way to expand bilateral trade and called for it to develop bilateral relations in international trade.

"We need to identify bilateral markets, capabilities and capacities, based on accurate statistics and information, to expand bilateral relations, and this is being done by the private sector," he said.

(Photo credit: IRNA).