Putin and Iranian Foreign Minister Hold Talks in St. Petersburg
'Respect for the Courage and Fight for Independence of the Iranian People,' Commitment to Continuing Strategic Relations
St. Petersburg — Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks with Special Representative of the President of Iran and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iran, Abbas Araghchi, in St. Petersburg on Sunday. At the outset of the meeting, Putin warmly welcomed the Iranian Foreign Minister and informed him that he had received a message from the Supreme Leader of Iran last week.
Putin stated, “I would ask you to convey my most sincere gratitude for it and to confirm that Russia, like Iran, intends to continue developing our strategic relations. Please convey my words of gratitude to the Supreme Leader for this message, as well as my best wishes, sound health, and wellbeing.”
The Russian President praised the courage and heroism of the Iranian people, saying, “We see how courageously and heroically the people of Iran are fighting for their independence and sovereignty. Of course, we very much hope that, relying on this courage and striving for independence, the Iranian people, under the leadership of their new Leader, will overcome this difficult period of trials and see peace prevail.”
Putin expressed Russia’s commitment to doing everything possible to achieve peace as soon as possible in the interests of Iran and all the peoples of the region. He stated, “For our part, we will do everything that serves your interests and the interests of all peoples of the region to ensure that this peace is achieved as soon as possible. You know our position well.” This high-level meeting is expected to further strengthen the strategic relations between the two countries.
