Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Turkmenistan to discuss bilateral and regional issues amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East. The meeting, which coincides with celebrations of a Turkmen poet, underscores the strong ties between Russia and Iran amid ongoing conflicts involving Israel and Hezbollah.
Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to meet with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Friday during a forum in Turkmenistan, as disclosed by a senior aide. Yury Ushakov, who serves as Putin’s foreign policy advisor, communicated to the press that this meeting will take place in Ashgabat while both leaders participate in an event commemorating the esteemed Turkmen poet Magtymguly Pyragy. Ushakov emphasized the importance of this dialogue, stating, “This meeting has great significance both for discussing bilateral issues as well as, of course, discussing the sharply escalated situation in the Middle East.” The gathering coincides with a larger Central Asian summit marking the 300th anniversary of the poet’s birth. Putin’s visit had not been announced beforehand. Recently, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin traveled to Iran for discussions with both President Pezeshkian and First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref. The context of this meeting unfolds amid a deteriorating situation in the Middle East, particularly with Israel conducting extensive bombardments of Lebanon, targeting Iran-supported Hezbollah, while Russia has initiated evacuations of its citizens.
The impending meeting between President Putin and President Pezeshkian occurs within a framework of deepening relations between Russia and Iran, particularly as Western nations scrutinize Iran’s alleged role in supplying military support to Moscow. The meeting is expected to address significant bilateral concerns, especially in light of recent escalations in tensions in the Middle East. Furthermore, this interaction occurs alongside preparations for a forthcoming BRICS summit to which President Pezeshkian has been invited.
In summary, the forthcoming talks between President Putin and President Pezeshkian represent a vital opportunity for both nations to deliberate on pressing bilateral relations and the increasingly urgent geopolitical dynamics within the Middle East. The meeting highlights Russia’s strategic partnership with Iran amidst ongoing regional conflicts and international scrutiny.
Original Source: www.themoscowtimes.com
