Iranian-Russian Meeting in Moscow... Araqchi: No Readiness from Americans to Negotiate

Lavrov described the Iranian-Russian consultations on regional issues as "close."

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov confirmed today, Wednesday, that "relations between Iran and Russia are advanced and fruitful," noting that "the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty between the two countries was signed in 2025, and the heads of state discussed last week in Turkmenistan the details of cooperation within this framework."

He added in a joint press conference with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araqchi in Moscow that "strengthening relations between the private sectors of the two countries is a necessity," pointing out that "Iran's relations with the Eurasian Economic Union are very important, and we are interested in expanding bilateral cooperation. We also discussed the Rasht-Astara railway line, which will contribute to developing the North-South Corridor route."

Lavrov described the Iranian-Russian consultations on regional issues as "close," affirming that "Tehran and Moscow seek to strengthen the democratic nature of international relations. We emphasize multilateralism, but unfortunately the West ignores this. Today, the principles and rules of international law must be respected."

He pointed out that "the two sides agreed to work with members of the international community who share their views and discussed ways to address the effects of sanctions," noting that "Iran, as a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency, has the right to enrich uranium."

"Defense Cooperation Continues"

For his part, Araqchi indicated that "we held detailed consultations today on all issues. Relations between Iran and Russia have witnessed tremendous expansion, and with the signing of the comprehensive partnership treaty, their pace has increased."

He added: "In the agreement signed today, we defined the competencies of the foreign ministries of the two countries. Our relations are comprehensive and multidimensional, and we have common positions in the political field and regularly exchange views."

He pointed out that "economic cooperation between the two countries has expanded significantly, with significant activity in the energy and transport sectors, increased trade exchange, and the opening of new areas for cooperation, noting that the joint committee will hold its meeting next February, in addition to discussions on scientific and cultural cooperation."

Araqchi emphasized that "defense and security cooperation between Iran and Russia continues," explaining that "the consultations included regional issues such as the Caucasus, Afghanistan, Ukraine, and Palestine, alongside the crimes committed by Israel."

Araqchi discussed the Iranian nuclear program, affirming Iran's commitment to the Non-Proliferation Treaty while maintaining its rights to use nuclear energy, including enrichment.

He added: "We have consensus on international issues, and we discussed ways to confront the hegemony exercised by the United States. The peace through force approach proposed by Washington is a danger to the international community, which seeks peace through law, and any use of force represents a serious deviation leading the world towards the law of the jungle."

Regarding sanctions, Araqchi pointed out that both countries have been subjected to unfair attacks by Western countries, saying: "We appreciate Russia's position in rejecting the legitimacy of the actions of the three European countries in the Security Council. They had no right to reimpose previous sanctions, and we consider this action null and void, and we thank Russia for its stance."

He concluded: "We continue cooperation and consultations to confront the unilateral sanctions imposed by America."

On the possibility of negotiating with the United States, Araqchi clarified: "We have not sent any message to America from our side, but we have never left the negotiating table. The Americans betrayed the negotiations halfway. If they change their approach and are ready to negotiate based on mutual respect and equality, we will consider it, but currently, they are not ready."

He said: "Their current approach is based on dictation, not real negotiation. Actual negotiations can only start when they correct their approach. The negotiating table must be based on respect and balance."

Cooperation Document

Meanwhile, the foreign ministers of Iran and Russia signed a cooperation document following their meeting in Moscow.

Mehr News Agency reported that they signed a cooperation program document between the foreign ministries of the two countries at the conclusion of their talks in Moscow.

This document, which was prepared following the implementation of the comprehensive strategic treaty between Iran and Russia, defines the consultation program between the foreign ministries of the two countries for the period from 2026 to 2028.