Iran (IMNA) - Ashtiani commended Russia for its stance in denouncing the Israeli attack on Iran's consulate in Damascus and for backing Iran's subsequent retaliatory strike on Israel. He emphasized that the terrorist incidents in both Russia and Iran are a direct consequence of Western countries, especially the United States, supporting extremist groups.
Furthermore, Ashtiani highlighted concerns about NATO and certain Western nations moving towards the East and called for leveraging the capabilities of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to address common security threats. The SCO, as emphasized by Ashtiani, could play a crucial role in neutralizing shared challenges posed by terrorism in the region.
During a meeting between Iranian Defense Minister Mohammad Reza Ashtiani and his Russian counterpart Sergei Shoigu in Astana, Kazakhstan, both officials addressed the importance of enhancing bilateral defense and military relations between Tehran and Moscow to bolster stability and security in the region while countering unilateral actions.
Shoigu, in response, condemned the Israeli attack on the consulate building of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Syria and expressed support for Iran's response as a legitimate act of defense.
The discussions between the two defense ministers also encompassed various topics, including the situation in the Caucasus region and collaborative efforts in combating terrorism. Iranian Defense Minister Ashtiani's participation in the SCO meeting of defense ministers in Astana further underscores the commitment to regional security and cooperation among member states.
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