Kremlin has promised to help Iran build a new nuclear power plant while the Islamic Republic prepares for a third round of sainting relief negotiations with the US.
Russia and Iran signed a preliminary agreement on April 25 to provide up to 55 billion cubic meters (BCM) of Russian natural gas annually to Iran, marking a significant step in strengthening its strategic partnership amid comprehensive western sanctions.
The agreement, announced during the visit of Iranian Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad, Moscow, also includes a $ 4 billion investment by Russian companies to develop seven Iranian oil fields and Moscow’s commitment to fund the construction of a new nuclear plant in Iran.
Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev has confirmed that initial deliveries of 1.8 BCM are scheduled to start this year. These volumes will be transported by the existing infrastructure, supposedly through Azerbaijan, according to Kommersant.
Price negotiations are underway between energy companies in both countries.
The gas agreement reflects a change in Russia’s energy strategy. Moscow seeks new markets after a sharp drop in gas exports to Europe due to sanctions and damage to infrastructure, especially the Nord Stream 1 pipeline explosion in 2022. A complete delivery of 55 BCM would rival the previous pipeline capacity.
Despite holding the second largest natural gas reserve in the world, after Russia, Iran has faced increasing difficulties to meet domestic demand. Years of American sanctions and sub -timing have impaired the Iranian energy infrastructure, forcing the country to import gas from neighbors such as Turkmenistan.
Russia and Iran also ended a bilateral agreement after a meeting of the intergovernmental commission, although the details have not yet been released. Paknejad expressed optimism that the final terms will be defined soon.
This partnership is based on a 20 -year strategic cooperation treaty in January, covering cooperation in defense, intelligence and energy. It reflects the growing alignment between Moscow and Tehran, countries that face the isolation of the West and seek to deepen bilateral trade and military collaboration.
Iran is currently under pressure to reach an agreement on its nuclear program with Washington. American and Israeli authorities accuse Iran of seeking a nuclear weapon.
Iran says its nuclear program is for civil energy purposes.
The US and Iran are conducting indirect negotiations with the help of Omanese mediators.
US President Donald Trump has promised to bombard Iran if an agreement is not reached. Iranian authorities said that giving up their nuclear program is out of question.
Originally published by The Cradle on April 25, 2025
Source: https://www.ocafezinho.com/2025/04/25/ira-assina-acordo-historico-de-cooperacao-em-gas-e-energia-nuclear-com-a-russia/
