MOSCOW, January 16. /ITAR-TASS/. Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif is certain that his talks in Moscow with Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov would further promote relations between the two countries. He made this statement at the opening of the meeting.

“Iran and Russia have a long record of relations in our region, our relations are based on strategic considerations and a rich history,” he said. “It is gratifying for us that within four months from the formation of a new government in Iran our relations are expanding.”

According to Zarif, a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani in Bishkek laid a solid cooperation basis.

“There are considerable possibilities for co-operation,” the minster continued. “We hope that the strengthening of the international treaty framework (on the Caspian) will promote the development of relations.