BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 12. Russia and Iran
discussed economic ties and joint projects, particularly the
latter's Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant and the development of the
North–South Transport Corridor, Trend reports via the Kremlin.


The discussions were held during the meeting between Russian
President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on
the sidelines of the International Forum of Neutrality in
Turkmenistan.


Opening the talks, Vladimir Putin emphasized that cooperation
between Moscow and Tehran continues to advance across all major
economic and infrastructure directions. He noted that trade
turnover grew by 13 percent last year and a further eight percent
in the first three quarters of 2025.


Putin underscored that work on key, major projects remains a
priority, singling out the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant—Russia’s
largest energy cooperation project with Iran—and continued progress
on the International North–South Transport Corridor, which aims to
connect Russian ports to the Persian Gulf and South Asia through
Iranian territory.


“We continue to work on our key, major projects. This includes
the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant and infrastructure development,
including the North–South route,” Putin stated.


He underscored his nation's pivotal position in enhancing
synergistic economic partnerships.







The Russian leader added that both sides are also exploring
cooperation in gas and electricity exchange while maintaining close
coordination on international issues, including Iran’s nuclear
file.


The International Forum, commemorating the 30th anniversary of
Turkmenistan's permanent neutrality, is currently underway in
Ashgabat. The event also marks the International Day of Neutrality
and the declaration of 2025 as the "International Year of Peace and
Trust." The forum has attracted high-level delegations from across
the globe, including the presidents of Russia, Türkiye, Iran,
Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and
Armenia, as well as the prime ministers of Azerbaijan and Georgia.
Representatives from numerous international and regional
organizations are also in attendance.


Turkmenistan's commitment to neutrality was officially
recognized on December 12, 1995, through a resolution adopted by
the United Nations General Assembly. This date has since been
established as Turkmenistan's Permanent Neutrality Day, observed
annually to honor the country's stance in global diplomacy.


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