8 Moscow opposes imposing sanctions against Iran: Official

Ardebil, July 16 (IRNA) - Head of Russian Federation Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Mines said Moscow opposes imposing any kind of sanctions against Iran, because such sanctions would hurt mutual trade and economic ties.

Recep Safarev on the sidelines of a joint meeting with heads of chambers of commerce of Ardebil province on Monday told IRNA, "Iran is an independent and influential country in the region of Middle East and has plenty of common interests with Russia." Referring to the western countries pressure on Russia to sever economic and political ties with Iran, the official said " Russia, because of its long-term interests and the necessity of having a strong partner in the region of Middle East insists on continuation of cooperation with Iran." He continued, "US and its European partners in imposing sanctions against Iran and imposing pressure on Russia to cut bilateral cooperation with Iran have political motives and Russia can only resist against such heavy atmosphere when it could have an importantpartner like Iran.

Safarev said, "Iran, because of its influence in the region can pave the way for expansion of cooperation between Russia and the region Arab countries."The Russian delegation after a 3-day visit to Ardebil and signing MoUs on economic cooperation will visit East and West Azerbaijan provinces, too.