rki.news
Sources Xinhua
Tehran, August 25, 2025 — Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Monday reiterated Iran’s opposition to nuclear weapons during a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to a statement from the Iranian Presidency.
Pezeshkian emphasized Iran’s commitment to peaceful nuclear activities and pledged to personally oversee the accelerated construction of the Rasht-Astara railway. The strategic route, part of the International North-South Transport Corridor, will enhance trade connectivity between the Persian Gulf, Russia, and Central Asia. He also reaffirmed Tehran’s focus on advancing joint economic and infrastructure projects with Moscow.
Highlighting the importance of multilateral cooperation, Pezeshkian stressed the role of the Eurasian Economic Union, Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and BRICS in countering unilateral measures and fostering economic stability among member states.
Putin described Russia-Iran relations as constructive and noted that bilateral trade increased by 11 percent in the first half of 2025. He confirmed progress on key projects, including the Rasht-Astara railway and cooperation at the Bushehr nuclear power plant, with new fuel deliveries already in progress.
Briefing Pezeshkian on his recent talks with U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska, Putin said discussions yielded positive outcomes that could contribute to resolving the Ukraine conflict. He reiterated Russia’s firm support for Iran’s right to uranium enrichment, calling it a vital component of their strategic partnership.