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Amid US threats, Russia and Iran cement 20-year strategic alliance

Russia’s lower house of parliament, the State Duma, has ratified a 20-year strategic partnership agreement with Iran, signaling a major expansion in political, economic, and defense cooperation between the two countries.

The treaty, initially signed in January by Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Moscow, was presented to the Duma for approval in March.

Putin had described the deal as a “breakthrough document,” while Pezeshkian said it would usher in a “new chapter” in bilateral relations.

The agreement outlines a comprehensive roadmap for collaboration across various sectors, including defense, energy, finance, transport, industry, agriculture, culture, science, and technology. It also emphasizes intelligence sharing and mutual support against common security threats.

A key clause ensures that neither country will assist any aggressor targeting the other.

Despite its depth, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrei Rudenko clarified that the agreement does not constitute a military alliance or commit either side to mutual defense.

The treaty also includes plans for joint investments in oil and gas projects, peaceful nuclear energy cooperation, and the creation of a payment system independent of third countries, using national currencies.

State Duma Chairman Vyacheslav Volodin said the pact would boost coordination in global affairs and deepen inter-parliamentary cooperation, including through international parliamentary forums.

The agreement comes amid heightened regional tensions and increasing Western sanctions against both countries. The Kremlin said it continues to engage diplomatically with Iran and is committed to de-escalation through political channels.

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