MOSCOW, Dec. 15 (Xinhua) -- Russia supports Iran's efforts to resolve the crisis in its relations with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the West, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated on Monday.
"We are ready to support the efforts Iran is now making to get over this crisis, including in its relations with the IAEA and the West in general," he said in an interview with Iranian media outlets.
According to Lavrov, not only has international law been undermined, but the Iranian nuclear deal has also been compromised, despite the fact that it was endorsed by UN Security Council resolutions, which all parties are obligated to implement under the UN Charter.
Russia has held discussions on the current situation with Iran at various levels, including at the presidential level. They exchanged views on how to address the situation, and how to restore relations with the IAEA and Western countries. The final decision, of course, rests with Iran's leadership, Lavrov stated.
Lavrov also emphasized that Russia and Iran possess significant potential for expanding bilateral trade, and this process should be promoted by all possible means.
"In addition to the North-South corridor, there is also such a flagship project as the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant -- its construction is ongoing. New blocks have been planned and some are already in operation," the minister said.
Lavrov pointed out that relations between Iran and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) also unlock additional opportunities. Iran signed a free trade agreement with the EAEU in 2023 and holds observer status in the organization.
"The Free Trade Agreement offers Iran and EAEU members more opportunities to increase their trade," he explained. ■