Novak Visits Iran to Discuss Enhancing Oil and Gas Cooperation

The Russian government revealed that "Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak, responsible for energy diplomacy, began a visit to Iran today, Wednesday, to discuss enhancing cooperation in the oil and gas sector." It reported in a statement that "Novak met with Iranian Oil Minister Javad Owji, and also visited several oil and gas equipment manufacturers, discussing prospects for collaboration in the fuel, energy, and transportation sectors." The government clarified that "the two sides discussed cooperation in electricity, nuclear energy, and renewable energy sources, but did not provide details." Novak was quoted saying, "The oil and gas industry is the backbone of our economies, and enhancing bilateral cooperation in this area will increase the economic sustainability of both Russia and Iran." Russia and Iran, both under Western sanctions, are working to strengthen ties to support their economies and undermine sanctions they claim are unjustified.