Iran and Russia are strategic partners with expanding ties, pointed out Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, calling for the swift implementation of existing agreements.

In a meeting with Sergei Shoigu, Secretary of Russia's National Security Council, Pezeshkian highlighted Moscow's support during challenging times for Tehran and underscored the importance of prioritizing relations with such a key ally in Iran’s foreign policy.

"We believe that the era of one-upmanship of some powers, including the United States, in the world is over," he stressed, highlighting that "cooperation between Iran and Russia to promote a multipolar world will definitely lead to further promotion of world security and peace."

Pezeshkian also condemned the atrocities committed by the Israeli occupation entity in the Gaza Strip, asserting that "the criminal acts of this regime against the oppressed and defenseless people of Gaza," as well as the assassination of Hamas' Political Bureau chief Ismail Haniyeh in Iran are clear violations of international laws and regulations.

On his part, Shoigu reiterated Russia's view of Iran as a key strategic ally in the region, affirming that both nations are working to "create a multipolar world and ensure the security of the region."

"The relations between the two countries are growing in all sectors and have good prospects," he confirmed.

Iran-Russia relations ‘strategic, deep, long-term’: Bagheri

In the same vein, Major General Mohammad Bagheri, chief of staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, described the friendly ties between Iran and Russia as "strategic, deep, and long-term," stressing that these relations would remain strong regardless of changes in government.

During his meeting with Shoigu in Tehran, Bagheri highlighted the long-standing friendly relations between the two countries.

Iran's Mehr News Agency reported that the discussions between the two sides were aimed at strengthening bilateral interaction, reviewing regional and international issues, and enhancing defense and military ties.

Bagheri praised Shoigu's successful tenure as Russia's Defense Ministry and reiterated the enduring strategic nature of Iran-Russia relations.

In turn, Shoigu expressed Russia's readiness for comprehensive cooperation with Iran on regional affairs.

The Russian diplomat also condemned Haniyeh's assassination, underlining that the perpetrators of this crime aim to escalate tensions in the region.