TEHRAN — The mayors of Tehran and Moscow have signed a memorandum of understanding which will pave the ground for future cooperation between Tehran and Moscow as two mega cities, ISNA reported on Tuesday.

Tehran Mayor Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf said that “we are planning on a three-year close cooperation with Moscow.”
“I’m glad to travel to Moscow when the Islamic Republic and Russia are enjoying active and mutual cooperation,” Qalibaf explained.

Since the Islamic Republic and major powers struck a nuclear deal in July, Iran and Russia have taken great steps to increase their trade ties dramatically.

During the visit of Vladimir Putin, the Russian leader, to Tehran next week, Iran and Russia will conclude 5 to 8 documents to the tune of $30 billion.

Putin will visit Iran to attend third Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) and hold talks with Iranian authorities.

“Undoubtedly, Putin’s visit to Tehran will boost our cooperation in its full swing,” he added.

Qalibaf expressed hope that they both could take practical measures for economic, technical and cultural cooperation by 2016.

For his part, Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin said Iran and Russia’s relations have strengthened over the past years.

He also said that “there is a great potential for both capitals to develop their relations.”

On the sidelines of the meeting, Qalibaf also told journalists that both sides discussed issues about transportation system and economic cooperation.

Russia has considerable experience in crisis management that can help Iran too, Qalibaf highlighted.

MQ/PA