TEHRAN, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian said that Iran, Russia and other independent countries in the world do not accept unilateralism and attempts by some states to impose their will on others.
Pezeshkian met with Russian Energy Minister Sergey Tsivilyev in Tehran, the capital of Iran, on Monday.
According to the statement published on the website of the Iranian Presidential Office, Pezeshkian criticized some countries' use of unilateral policies, pressure and sanctions in order to force independent states to surrender.
Pointing out the importance of developing scientific, industrial and economic cooperation between independent countries, Pezeşkiyan stated that such cooperation could help reduce the impact of unilateral pressure and sanctions and pave the way for a more fair international order.
Pezeshkiyan also called for accelerating the implementation of strategic agreements between Iran and Russia and stated that they are ready to eliminate the obstacles to the implementation of joint projects.
Describing Russia as Iran's "strategic partner and reliable friend", Pezeshkian noted that the two countries have broad potential for cooperation in fields such as energy, oil, natural gas, petrochemicals, industry and trade. Pezeshkian also stated that Iranian leader Mojtaba Khamenei emphasized the importance of strengthening relations with Russia.
Tsivilyev stated that they are determined to implement joint projects with Iran and said that they appreciate Iran's independent attitude and resistance to external pressures.
Iran and Russia, which are under US sanctions, have been expanding their political and economic relations in recent years in order to counter US restrictions.