Iranian Minister of Defense Brigadier General Aziz Nasirzadeh arrived in Belarus late Tuesday for high-level talks aimed at strengthening defense collaboration and expanding bilateral cooperation.

Upon landing in Minsk, Nasirzadeh received an official welcome from senior Belarusian officials, reflecting the significance both nations place on the visit. His schedule includes meetings with top military and civilian leaders to discuss key areas of mutual interest, including defense partnerships and technology transfers.

The visit comes amid a broader effort by Tehran and Minsk to deepen military and technological cooperation. Belarus, an ally of Russia, has sought closer defense ties with Iran as both nations face Western sanctions and geopolitical challenges. Discussions are expected to focus on joint defense initiatives, arms development, and strategies for countering shared security threats.

In 2023, Iran and Belarus signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance defense ties, and in 2024, Iranian Army Chief Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi met with Belarusian Air Force Commander Major General Andrey Lukyanovich in Tehran to discuss military coordination.

Read more: Iran keen on enhancing comprehensive ties with Belarus: Iran VP

Beyond military cooperation, talks are expected to explore avenues for technological exchange and industrial partnerships. Belarus has shown interest in Iranian defense technology, particularly drones and missile systems, which have gained prominence on the international stage. Both countries are also looking at enhancing cooperation in the defense industry to reduce reliance on external suppliers.

В Республику Беларусь с официальным визитом прибыл министр обороны и поддержки Вооруженных Сил Исламской Республики Иран генерал-майор Азиз Насирзаде. pic.twitter.com/WGq0HzrR78

— Минобороны Беларуси (@MOD_BY) March 11, 2025