RNA - "New conditions have arisen in the region and the global arena which reminds us that relations between Iran and Russia should permanently develop," Velayati said in a meeting with Russia's special envoy on Syria, Alexander Lavrentiev, in Tehran on Saturday.

He said the enemies have been and are attempting to distort the relations between Tehran and Moscow but to no avail, and added, "We should say that the future of the region, specially in West Asia, Central Asia and the Middle-East, is highly sensitive and we should endeavor to develop ties and confront the existing threats."

In relevant remarks in mid November, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani in a meeting with Russian Federation Council Chairwoman Ivanovna Matvienko in Tehran called for broadening of all-out ties with Russia.

"Tehran is determined to broaden mutual cooperation with Moscow in different areas," President Rouhani said.

The Iranian president said that his country is also willing to develop parliamentary cooperation with Russia.

"The implementation of Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) should pave the way for expansion of cooperation on other sectors, including economy, culture, science and technology," President Rouhani said.

The Iranian president said that Russia has helped Iran in the field of nuclear technology, adding, "The Russian Federation played significant role to help Iran develop its peaceful nuclear program and Russian government remained committed to its pledges concerning the nuclear program."

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