Putin and Pezeshkian discuss construction of new nuclear power units in Iran
Moscow and Tehran are discussing the possibility of building new nuclear power units in Iran. Russian President Vladimir Putin said this on January 17 during a joint press conference with his Iranian counterpart Masoud Pezeshkian, who is on an official visit to Moscow.
"We have a huge project in nuclear power. One unit is already successfully operating. We are now discussing the possibility of building additional units," Putin said.
He noted that the Rosatom state corporation is advancing a project to build two new power units at the Bushehr nuclear power plant (NPP), which will undoubtedly contribute to strengthening Iran's energy security and stimulate further growth of the republic's economy. The plant will provide the population and industry with inexpensive and at the same time environmentally friendly energy.
The head of state also said that the Russian Federation may start gas supplies to Iran from small volumes, for example, up to 2 billion cubic meters, and later reach 55 billion cubic meters per year. This will be possible if the project of construction of a gas pipeline to the Islamic Republic is realized. Now it is in the works, and there are always a lot of questions in such situations. For example, they are related to the price component of the construction.
Putin added that Moscow and Tehran are also discussing cooperation in the oil sector.
The Iranian president arrived in Moscow on an official visit earlier in the day. Among those welcoming him were Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev and Foreign Ministry officials. Pezeshkian laid a wreath of scarlet roses and white lilies at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Alexander Garden.
Later, the Iranian president met with Putin, who emphasized the importance of the Iranian counterpart's visit, which provides an opportunity to discuss any topic of bilateral relations. After the talks, Pezeshkian and the Russian leader signed a comprehensive strategic partnership treaty, which touches on many aspects of Moscow-Tehran relations, taking them to a whole new level.
The Iranian president said following the signing of the treaty that the Russian Federation plays a major role in the Islamic Republic's foreign policy, which prioritizes the preservation of good neighborliness. The new treaty, Pezeshkian pointed out, will open "a new big chapter" in the cooperation between the two states.
