MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks with Iran’s security chief Mohsen Rezaei in Moscow on Thursday, with discussions focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and a proposed pipeline project to supply Russian natural gas to Iran.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, described the discussions as an extremely important exchange, according to remarks reported by the Iranian embassy.
He said the two leaders discussed plans to construct gas pipelines connecting Russia and Iran.
According to Iranian state television, Rezaei said the proposed project would help Tehran overcome domestic gas shortages while allowing Russian gas to be supplied to neighbouring countries.
Despite being a major natural gas producer, Iran has repeatedly faced shortages of the fuel, particularly during periods of high demand for heating and electricity.
The situation has reportedly worsened following the war involving the United States and Israel that began in February. Tehran has also reported damage to key energy infrastructure, including natural gas refineries, during nearly 40 days of intense fighting.
Russia and Iran have strengthened their partnership in recent years, particularly since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Both countries remain subject to extensive international sanctions.
In early October, Putin expressed Moscow’s willingness to contribute to diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
Rezaei also said the Russian president had emphasised the importance of regional security arrangements and opposed interference by outside powers in resolving Middle Eastern disputes.
