Moscow

Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday he was pleased to engage with the leadership of Russia as West Asia faces growing uncertainty, amid doubts over a second round of peace talks aimed at ending the regional conflict.

Araghchi’s remarks came a day after he arrived in St. Petersburg and met Vladimir Putin, who praised the Iranian people for defending their sovereignty and said Moscow was ready to help restore peace in the region.

Posting on X, the Iranian minister said recent developments had demonstrated the strength and depth of the strategic partnership between Tehran and Moscow. He added that Iran welcomed Russia’s support for diplomacy and valued its solidarity.

Upon his arrival in Russia on Monday, Araghchi was received by officials and Kazem Jalali. His Moscow visit followed a trip to Pakistan, which he described as productive, including consultations with Asim Munir.

Earlier, during talks with Putin, Araghchi said ties between Iran and Russia represented a strategic partnership at the highest level and would continue to expand regardless of circumstances. He also thanked Moscow for supporting the Islamic Republic.

Sergey Lavrov described the discussions between Putin and Araghchi as useful and constructive. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Russia was prepared to offer mediation or other assistance acceptable to the parties involved.

The diplomatic activity comes after an initial round of talks between Iran and the United States on April 11 and 12 failed to produce a breakthrough.

Araghchi had also visited Oman, where he met Haitham bin Tariq to discuss security in the Strait of Hormuz and diplomatic efforts to end the Iran-US conflict.

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Meanwhile, Donald Trump recently said direct phone talks remained possible and extended the ceasefire with Iran indefinitely to allow more time for negotiations.