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Russia-Iran ties getting better, but not at expense of nuclear talks

Russian officials see an advantage in expanding economic relations with Iran, but are still committed to concluding a nuclear agreement.
Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov arrives at the airport in Geneva, to join talks over Iran's nuclear programme, November 22, 2013. Iran and six world powers struggled on Friday, after two days of talks, to overcome stumbling blocks to an interim deal under which Tehran would curb its contested nuclear programme in exchange for some relief from economic sanctions. REUTERS/Martial Trezzini/Pool (SWITZERLAND - Tags: POLITICS) - RTX15OXQ

In private meetings in Moscow last week, senior Russian officials insisted that Russia’s government remain committed to cooperation with the United States in dealing with Iran, Syria and other international challenges. Moreover, notwithstanding divergent US and Russian perspectives about Iran and its domestic and international conduct, Russia would prefer to avoid the emergence of a nuclear-armed Iran, if possible, at an acceptable cost. Nevertheless, the drama underway in Ukraine appears to be contributing to a rapprochement between the Moscow and Tehran.

Well before instability in Ukraine erupted into a full-blown crisis with the collapse of former President Viktor Yanukovych’s government in late February, Russia and Iran already appeared to be drawing closer to one another. Notwithstanding mutual suspicions, they share a variety of interests in Central Asia and the Middle East, especially in Syria. They also share profound reservations about American foreign policy and are prepared at times to oppose it.

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