Sensitivity of certain states towards Iran-Russia relations, illogical: Afkham

Tehran, April 12, IRNA – A senior Foreign Ministry official on Saturday said sensitivity of certain countries towards promotion of cooperation between Iran and Russia, as two independent states, is not logical as the two are enjoying normal relations. ˈIran and Russia enjoy numerous capacities for bilateral cooperation and promotion of economic and trade relations,ˈ Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Marziyeh Afkham told IRNA. She said Iranian and Russian officials are willing to make use of the existing potentials to boost bilateral economic ties. Afkham made the remarks while criticizing some recent sensitivities shown by certain states, including the US, towards Tehran-Moscow economic relations. Iran and Russia are completing their preparation for the ˈoil for foodˈ barter deal worth $20 billion. The news from western press almost coincided with the end of another round of nuclear talks in Vienna. The economic deal between Iran and Russia was first discussed in January. According to the agreement, Moscow would buy up to 500,000 barrels of oil per day. In exchange, Teheran would get food products and equipment.