The two presidents held talks on the sidelines of the 8th summit of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), discussing bilateral relations, the progress of joint projects and regional developments.

Pezeshkian expressed appreciation for Russia’s continued political, security and economic support for Iran, noting that bilateral trade is on the rise.

He said unilateral US measures highlight the need to strengthen multilateralism and deepen cooperation among countries facing sanctions. He also stressed that regional countries have the capacity and determination to resolve their problems through cooperation without relying on the US.

The Iranian president called for broader cooperation between Tehran and Moscow across scientific, economic, industrial, cultural, security and defense fields.

Highlighting cultural exchanges between the two countries, Pezeshkian pointed to festivals held in Moscow, Kazan and Astrakhan. He also announced that Iran has issued the necessary permits for Russia’s state radio and television broadcaster to establish a representative office in Iran, welcoming plans for reciprocal cultural and media exhibitions in Tehran.

For his part, Putin said trade between Russia and Iran has grown by 10.4 percent in the first eight months of 2026.

He also confirmed that construction work at the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant is continuing, stressing that Moscow is honoring its commitments under joint projects with Tehran.

The Russian president expressed hope for positive developments in the Middle East, described the GECF summit as constructive and said Russia is always pleased to welcome the Iranian president.