Iran, Russia to discuss regional tensions and bilateral ties, says FM

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who is on a visit to St. Petersburg, said that talks with Russian officials will focus on strengthening bilateral relations between Moscow and Tehran as well as addressing regional and international developments.

Araghchi shared the remarks on his Telegram channel, noting that Iran and Russia maintain “close consultations” across a wide range of issues, particularly regional affairs.

“As you can see, we have always had close consultations with Russia and maintain continuous bilateral dialogue on a wide range of issues, especially regional ones. Due to the so-called ‘imposed war’, there was a temporary pause in meetings. We took advantage of the opportunity, and following my visits to Pakistan and Oman, a visit to Russia was also organised to discuss developments related to the war during this period and the current situation with our Russian partners, as well as to review the latest developments. Of course, further coordination is necessary,” he said.

Araghchi noted that his visits to Pakistan and Oman were primarily focused on bilateral cooperation. In Islamabad, discussions reportedly addressed the conditions under which dialogue with the United States could continue. He also said talks with the Omani leadership covered security issues in the Strait of Hormuz.

He described Pakistan as playing a “mediating role” in Iran–US contacts, adding that recent developments and what he called “incorrect approaches and excessive demands by the United States” had disrupted a previous round of negotiations despite progress.

Araghchi also highlighted Oman’s role as a friendly state that took a positive stance during the conflict, saying consultations with Gulf neighbours are important for managing regional challenges.

He emphasised the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, noting that Iran and Oman, as coastal states, must coordinate closely to ensure maritime security and protect shared interests.

“Iran and Oman are two coastal countries that control the Strait of Hormuz, and consultations on this issue were necessary. Safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz is an important global matter, and together with Oman, as countries bordering this strait, we must maintain close coordination to ensure shared interests. Any actions in this area directly affect the interests of both countries.

Fortunately, there is significant alignment between us and Oman, certain agreements have been reached, and consultations will continue at the expert level,” Araghchi noted.

By Jeyhun Aghazada