Russian Duma Ratifies Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Iran
The Russian State Duma ratified the treaty on a comprehensive strategic partnership between Russia and Iran on Tuesday. The treaty was signed on January 17 during the visit of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi to Moscow. The upper chamber of the Russian parliament, the Federation Council, is expected to confirm the document at its session on April 16.
The agreement lays the foundation for the development of partnership between Moscow and Tehran in all areas, particularly in defense and counter-terrorism, the energy sector, transportation and the financial sector.
The partnership provides for close cooperation in joint military exercises and mutual support in case of aggression, with the agreement not to provide support to a third party that contributes to the continuation of hostile actions. The two countries also agreed not to allow their territories to be used for the support of separatist movements against the other party. They plan to cooperate more closely in the fight against international terrorism.
The countries intend to resist the application of unilateral coercive measures, considering them as a violation of international law. Russia and Iran will not follow the sanctions imposed by third countries and guarantee the non-application of one-sided restrictions.
The two nations also agreed to promote media cooperation to counter disinformation and negative propaganda. They will support each other in preventing natural and man-made disasters.
In the economic sphere, Russia and Iran have agreed to continue their trade and economic cooperation in all areas of common interest. A gas pipeline through Azerbaijan is planned to be built. The parties want to cooperate to create an independent payment infrastructure not controlled by third countries. Moscow and Tehran are interested in joint projects in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, including the construction of nuclear power plants.
The treaty has a 20-year term with automatic five-year extensions unless either of the contracting parties explicitly terminates it.