Candidate of Political Sciences Leonid Isaev: BRICS topics are high on the agenda of Russia and Iran

The expansion of cultural relations between Iran and Russia is crucial to secure national interests not only in these two countries but also in other regions like Central Asia and the Caucasus.

Cultural diplomacy, also known as "soft power," assumes a central role in bridging the gap between diverse cultures, ideas, and values between nations.

Within the context of Iran and Russia, cultural diplomacy serves as a driving force behind building deeper connections and promoting mutual respect. Both countries have embraced comprehensive cultural exchange programs, fostering a genuine dialogue encompassing ideas, customs, and traditions. These initiatives enhance the bond between Iran and Russia, enrich their mutual understanding, and solidify their ties for the future.

Cultural programs, events, and festivals have become regular features of the growing cultural exchange agenda, showcasing the rich heritage of both nations. Furthermore, tourism has emerged as a major component of the bilateral relationship, allowing visitors to explore each other's cultural landscapes.

Literature, art, and music are key areas of collaboration between Iran and Russia, with literary translations and festivals facilitating the exchange of literary masterpieces and art exhibitions and music festivals providing platforms for artists and musicians to showcase their talents. This is reported by Tehran Times.

Leonid Issaev - Candidate of Sciences* (PhD) in Political Problems of International Relations, Deputy Director of the Centre for Stability and Risk Analysis at the HSE University of Russia told about the priorities of cooperation between the two countries in an exclusive interview with TV BRICS.

“Russia and Iran have rather important agenda, which, firstly, means that the parties are preparing to sign a long-term co-operation agreement at the initiative of the Iranian side, which de facto should cement Russia as a long-term partner of Iran. This document will be signed in the near future.”

He also noted that the document on Iran's accession to a free trade zone with the Eurasian Economic Union is at the final stage of harmonization: “It will remove trade barriers and significantly simplify trade between Russia and the entire Eurasian commonwealth. BRICS topics are certainly high on the agenda of both countries at the moment. In fact, this is the first summit meeting between the leadership of Russia and the leadership of Iran, a country that was recently invited to join BRICS.”

Russia, which will chair BRICS in 2024, will shape the agenda of events not only for the five countries, as it was before, but also for the new members, including Iran.

Tatyana Seliverstova, Director of the BRICS+ International Business Forum and Chairman of the Board of the Autonomous Non-Profit Organization Leaders of International Cooperation, spoke about expectations from the cooperation between the two countries:

"As far as bilateral relations between Russia and Iran are concerned, there is no doubt in the systematic and progressive development of co-operation between the two countries in various areas. It is necessary to pay special attention to the possibility of creating large infrastructure projects in the field of logistics, energy, and the development of joint technological projects. In this regard, the businesses of the two countries need to engage in a more active dialogue and begin to understand the peculiarities of the business climate. The high level of political interaction should be confirmed by real trade and investment projects".

Overall, the expansion of cultural ties between Iran and Russia not only strengthens their bilateral relations, but also promotes a broader understanding and appreciation of each other's cultures. As cultural diplomacy develops, it is evident that Iran-Russia relations are not only based on political and economic considerations, but also on deep ties forged through cultural exchange and shared values.

Overall, the expansion of cultural relations between Iran and Russia not only solidifies their bilateral relationship but also contributes to a broader understanding and appreciation of each other's cultures. As cultural diplomacy continues to thrive, it becomes evident that Iran and Russia's relationship is not solely based on political and economic considerations, but also on the deep connections forged through cultural exchange and shared values.

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