Russian, Iranian Presidents discuss Iran’s nuclear program

PanARMENIAN.Net - Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and his Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev have agreed to boost ties between their countries in a telephone conversation.

The call came after Russia snubbed Iran's invitation to visit two atomic sites in the Islamic republic that were thrown open to a group of foreign diplomats at the weekend.

It was also ahead of key talks between Iran and the world powers in Istanbul on Jan. 21-22.

Iran and Russia must always be "friends and colleagues," state television quoted Ahmadinejad as telling Medvedev. "The Islamic republic of Iran welcomes an increase of ties in all areas between the two countries."

Its website said Medvedev echoed the Iranian hardliner's views.

Medvedev, according to the report which did not give a date for the call, said the two long-standing allies could boost ties in energy, fuel, transportation and other commercial areas.

"Russia is ready for all cooperation with the Islamic Republic of Iran," Medvedev was quoted as saying, AFP reported.