Iran, Russia Strengthen Ties Through North-South Corridor and Energy Cooperation

TEHRAN (Iran News) Jalali emphasized that the expansion of ties is not just strategic but a necessity, driven by geographical proximity and shared geopolitical interests. Quoting Iran’s Supreme Leader’s recent message to Russian President Vladimir Putin, he reaffirmed Iran’s support for a strong, globally influential Russia alongside an independent and powerful Iran.

The ambassador pointed to common regional and international stances as a cornerstone of the growing partnership. He noted Russia’s alignment with Iran’s discourse in global platforms, such as the BRICS economic group, as a reflection of these shared perspectives.

“Russia has embraced a strategic vision aligned with Iran’s in the global arena,” Jalali said, noting that both countries view each other as essential partners in confronting Western-dominated narratives and structures.

Jalali underlined that both nations have mutual needs that necessitate close cooperation. He referenced the recent ratification of a comprehensive strategic cooperation treaty by Russia’s Federation Council and State Duma, suggesting a serious commitment from Moscow.

Highlighting Russia’s intent to diversify its export routes beyond the Black Sea, Jalali revealed a $500 billion allocation for developing the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC)—a move he called a “strategic necessity” for Russia and a major opportunity for Iran.

Cargo movement along the northern branch of the INSTC has already seen substantial growth, increasing from 3.7 million tons in 2022 to around 33 million tons in 2023, according to Jalali.

The ambassador echoed comments made by President Putin, who emphasized the strategic importance of alternative trade corridors beyond mere economic calculations. Jalali stated that Iran could emerge as the “second Suez Canal” if the INSTC becomes fully operational and accessible to Europe.

The corridor comprises three routes, with the eastern branch already functional. Cargo transported through this route rose from 600,000 tons in 2023 to 1.8 million tons in 2024. Iran aims to push this figure to 3 million tons by early 2025, with a full capacity potential of 15 million tons.

“For Russia, the corridor is a necessity. For Iran, it’s a competitive advantage,” Jalali said. He noted that completing the Iranian segment of the INSTC would significantly boost Iran’s international security and geopolitical standing.

Jalali also endorsed Russia’s proposal to use Iran as a transit hub for gas exports, calling for swift action on the initiative. He emphasized that such projects should proceed without delay, given their strategic and economic significance.

He further noted that Russia’s economy is increasingly reliant on Iranian goods. According to Russian customs data, trade between the two nations has reached $5 billion—a significant rise in recent years.

With the Iran-Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement set to take effect on May 15, 2025, Jalali urged Iranian businesses to actively engage with this vital market to boost exports and bilateral trade.

Ali-Mohammad Mousavi, Deputy Minister of Petroleum for International Affairs and Commerce, described the Iran-Russia Economic Commission as a symbol of both countries’ political will to foster cooperation and achieve shared success.

Mousavi praised the robust Iranian delegation at the commission’s 18th session, noting it reflected Tehran’s strong commitment to expanding its relationship with Moscow. He also pointed to recent high-level discussions between Iranian and Russian energy ministers, which have laid the groundwork for tangible agreements.

The expert-level meetings of the commission began on Wednesday, April 23, at Russia’s Energy Agency in Moscow. On Thursday, both sides finalized multiple cooperation documents to be signed by Iranian Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad and Russian Energy Minister Sergey Tsivilev, co-chairs of the commission.

The final signing ceremony will take place on Friday, April 25, at the President Hotel in Moscow, marking another milestone in what both nations consider a deepening strategic alliance.

This growing Iran-Russia partnership is not only reshaping regional transit and energy dynamics but also signaling a shift in global alliances, as both countries seek alternatives to traditional Western-dominated trade routes and energy supply chains.