Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu called today for "greater cooperation with Iran to enhance stability and security in the Middle East." During talks with his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Reza Ashtiani, Shoigu stated: "Cooperation between Moscow and Tehran has reached a new level, and bilateral dialogue is intensifying."
He added, "We aim to implement a full range of joint cooperation activities, despite the opposition from the United States and its Western allies. The pressure of sanctions on Russia and Iran is proving ineffective, while Russian-Iranian interaction reaches a new level."
Shoigu emphasized the trust developed between the leaderships of Russia and Iran, noting that "the high dynamics of meetings confirm the willingness of both parties to continue strengthening the strategic partnership in the defense sector and military cooperation."
The Iranian news outlet "Noor News" reported that Shoigu met today with the head of Iran's National Security Council, Ali Akbar Ahmadian, where they discussed a wide range of topics, particularly developments in the Caucasus region.
The defense minister also visited the aerospace forces of the Revolutionary Guard, where he met with the commander of the IRGC aerospace forces, Brigadier General Amir Ali Hajizadeh, while being presented with Iranian drones, missiles, and air defense systems.
Shoigu arrived in Tehran on Tuesday, leading a high-level military delegation for talks with Iranian military leadership.
