TEHRAN – Iran’s ambassador to Moscow said senior officials from Russia’s Energy Ministry will soon travel to Tehran on President Vladimir Putin’s orders to finalize a gas export agreement.

Kazem Jalali told reporters on Monday at the opening of the 19th Iran Plast exhibition that the visit follows Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s recent trip to China and his extensive talks with Putin. “One of the results of these consultations is the imminent visit of Russian energy officials to Iran, which will take place at Putin’s directive,” Jalali said.

He added that the discussions will focus on finalizing agreements in the energy sector, particularly pricing. “If an understanding is reached, the first phase of the project will be launched within a few months on a pilot scale, followed by larger volumes and joint investments in necessary infrastructure,” he said.

Jalali expressed hope that implementation of the agreements would also pave the way for operationalizing the transit of Russian gas to Iran and open a new chapter in bilateral cooperation.

The envoy also highlighted the importance of free trade agreements with neighboring countries, calling them “a vital opportunity for economic actors to expand markets and strengthen regional economic ties.”

Jalali noted that Iran and Russia’s relationship is strategic, backed by a cooperation roadmap signed last year, though “hostile forces are seeking to obstruct the development of these ties.” He stressed the role of trade exhibitions in showcasing opportunities, recalling that while Russia’s trade with Iran has spanned over a century, it has weakened at times due to external pressures.

Turning to Russia’s domestic economy, Jalali pointed to high demand in the construction sector, citing the recent building of 320,000 housing units in Chechnya. He said Iranian businesses could fill gaps in construction and industry, but must adapt to Russia’s strict technical standards.

He added that the current level of Iran-Russia trade does not reflect the two countries’ potential. While governments provide frameworks, he said, “many barriers are internal and must be removed with serious will,” noting that the private sector can play a decisive role in boosting trade.

EF/