17:30
The Kremlin, Moscow
The two leaders discussed prospects for expanding trade, economic and investment ties, including in the context of implementing major joint projects in energy and transport infrastructure. They exchanged views on important current issues on the global and regional agenda.
Following the talks, Mr Putin and Mr Rouhani adopted a Joint Statement of the President of the Russian Federation and the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
In addition, a package of cooperation agreements in various fields was signed within the framework of the Iranian President’s official visit to Russia, including documents on cooperation in railway transport, oil and gas, information technologies and communications, nuclear energy, construction, sport, tourism and the legal sphere.
Mr Putin and Mr Rouhani also made statements for the press.
* * *
Beginning of meeting with President of Iran Hassan Rouhani
President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr President, colleagues and friends, I am happy to welcome you to Moscow.
Mr President, the last time we met was in Baku last summer. I am glad to have this opportunity to welcome you to the Russian capital.
Russia and Iran have maintained cooperation for many years, if not centuries. We established diplomatic relations over 500 years ago. Iran is a good neighbour and a reliable and stable partner for Russia.
We have been cooperating successfully in nearly all areas, including on the international stage to address acute international problems, as well as in the economy. We attained substantial results in all these areas in the past few years.
Suffice it to say that last year our trade grew 70 percent, which is a unique achievement amid the current economic difficulties. These results have been largely achieved thanks to your contribution, Mr President, and thanks to the efforts of your Government.
We are very glad to see you in Moscow. Welcome.
President of Iran Hassan Rouhani (retranslated): Mr President, I am happy to be the guest of the Russian Government and people and your personal guest. It is our first foreign visit this year, and we are glad [that we have come to Russia] because this is evidence of the further development of our close ties.
Relations between our countries have been developing consistently over the past three and a half years. This is not our first meeting, and when I look at the achievements we attained after each of our meetings, I see that we have achieved a great deal.
Our interaction has entered a new stage when we can speak about a new quality of our relations. I hope that new steps will be taken during this visit to promote our cooperation still more.
We have accumulated considerable experience in the joint fight against terrorism and the drug threat. Our ultimate goal is to strengthen peace and stability in the region. The development of our relations is not directed against other countries.
Thank you.
See also
March 28, 2017