Khamenei advisor says Iran benefited from relations with Russia 

Ali Akbar Velayati, Foreign Relations Advisor to Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, said his country has benefited from its relations with Russia, adding that Tehran and Moscow are powerful regional powers who play a prominent role in the international arena.

In an interview with Kayhan newspaper, published Tuesday, Velayati said “Iran’s regional power is on the rise”.

“Iran has never been as strong during the Islamic Republic era and has substantial power and influence in the region and internationally now. Americans confess that they have to deal with three powerful countries, [namely] Iran, China and Russia,” he added.

Velayati said Moscow as a Security Council member can play a positive role in ensuring “international talks that Tehran is engaged in must to conform to the Security Council framework and laws” as well as play an important role in the nuclear negotiations, adding that it is natural to consult with Russia on such issues.

“Our relationship with Russia is based on mutual respect, recognition of the rights of the other side on an equal basis, and non-interference in the affairs of the other,” Khamenei’s Advisor added.

Velayati explained that Tehran has benefited from relations with Russia, especially in the field of technology.

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