**Russia and Iran to Sign New Strategic Partnership Deal**
Russia and Iran are set to sign a new strategic partnership agreement. This deal is expected to formalize their commitments to enhanced defense cooperation and joint efforts for regional and global security.
The agreement comes as the two countries face increasing global isolation. Analysts say this partnership is part of an “Axis of Upheaval” that also includes China and North Korea, positioning itself against the West.
**Historical Ties**
This new deal replaces a 2001 treaty between Russia and Iran. The countries have been working on the agreement for years. In early 2022, the Russian Foreign Ministry announced that it was nearing completion.
**Recent Developments**
Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian at the BRICS summit in October. This meeting led to a statement from Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov that the agreement was ready for finalization.
Lavrov emphasized that the new deal would formalize close defense cooperation and interaction in regional and global peace and security. He also said it would be an important factor in strengthening Russia-Iran relations.
**Timing**
The signing of the agreement is expected to happen just before the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump. Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Esmail Baghaei has expressed hope that the deal will be signed by the end of January.
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