Zarif in Moscow for Talks on Regional Developments

“We need to hold talks with our Russian friends on different issues pertaining to bilateral ties,” Zarif told reporters upon arrival on Sunday.

“More important than me, chairman of the Iran-Russia Joint Commission Dr. Ardakanian is also present here. He will discuss mutual relations with the Russian side,” he added.

“In addition to bilateral discussions, I will also discuss with Russian officials mutual cooperation on regional issues, including Syria. Astana talks are going to be held soon in Turkey and we need to make the necessary arrangements in that regard,” he added.

Zarif said he will also discuss the Yemen crisis, the Israeli regime’s acts of aggression in the region, and the “serious” developments unfolding in Afghanistan.

“Iran’s special representatives for Afghanistan, Yemen and Syria are on the Iranian delegation and will sit down for talks with their counterparts,” he noted.

“We also need to inform our Russian friends on the latest developments pertaining to the JCPOA, including the [recent] negotiations in France [from where] I immediately went to China and let Chinese officials in on the latest developments.”

“And I have travelled to Russia now, and I will inform Mr Lavrov and other Russia authorities of the latest developments. We have common ground with Russia and China on the JCPOA and many global developments,” he added.