Putin discussed the situation surrounding the Iranian nuclear deal with the Iranian president

 

 Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Seyed Ebrahim Raisi discussed the nuclear agreement, the situation in Afghanistan, the fight against terrorism in Syria and economic cooperation between the countries, Rossiyskaya Gazeta reports.

At the beginning of the conversation, the Russian leader thanked Raisi for visiting Moscow during these difficult times of the pandemic. "Immediately after you take office, we are in constant contact. But, of course, neither video conferencing nor telephone conversations can replace personal communication, "Putin said. The President of the Russian Federation also noted that despite the pandemic last year, there was a slight increase in trade - over 6%. "And in the past, more than 38 percent," Putin added.

 Large projects are being implemented between Russia and Iran, work is being done in many areas, he stressed. Speaking about economic cooperation, Putin also recalled that Iran's relations with the Eurasian Economic Union are developing on the basis of an interim agreement. "We are actively working to create a long-term basis, a free trade area between Iran and our association," the Russian leader said. Iran and the Russian Federation can boost economic cooperation several times, Raisi is sure. "Our trade and economic relations in the current situation, of course, are not satisfying. Of course, we can increase the level of our trade and economic cooperation several times, "he said.

There is also cooperation between the two countries on an international basis. "I'm not even talking about the fact that, thanks in large part to our efforts, we have been able to help the Syrian government overcome the threats posed by international terrorism," Putin said. Raisi, for his part, said that the experience of cooperation between Russia and Iran in Syria could create preconditions for its application in other areas.

 He added that in the current situation, when there is opposition to the unilateral actions of the West, in particular the United States, Tehran and Moscow can create synergies in the interaction between the two countries. "We have been resisting the Americans for more than 40 years. And we will never stop the country's progress and development because of sanctions or threats. Of course, we are now working to ensure that sanctions are lifted," Raisi said. The situation in Afghanistan was also discussed during the talks. That worries Russia, Putin said. "I would like to discuss all these issues with you, to know your position on these issues," the Russian leader told the Iranian president.

 Another important topic raised during the talks between the two leaders was the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action for Iran's Nuclear Program (CFSP). Putin noted that he would like to know the position of the President of Iran on this issue. In general, the Russian leader stressed that the talks had a large agenda. Raisi, for his part, said the Iranian side had handed over a draft strategic co-operation agreement to Russia for a period of 20 years. After the protocol conversation, the negotiations traditionally continued behind closed doors.