President Putin also welcomed the remarks by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian regarding the need for collective action by GECF member states against unilateral sanctions.
Putin called on member states to counter unilateral Western sanctions against energy-rich countries, which he said lead to unfair competition. The consequences of these sanctions not only affect gas consumers but also impact producers, he added.
He also pointed to the rising trend of global gas consumption, stating that by 2050, global demand for gas will reach 5.5 trillion cubic meters per year, and international supply will increase by about 1.5 times.
Putin criticized European sanctions against Russia, saying that by turning away from Russian energy resources, Europe is damaging its own industry and social sector.
Iranian, Russian presidents pledge to expand bilateral ties, advance joint projects
The two presidents met on the sidelines of the eighth summit of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) to review bilateral relations, assess the progress of joint projects and discuss regional developments.
President Pezeshkian thanked Russia for its continued political, security and economic support, noting that bilateral trade was growing.
He said unilateral US actions underscored the need for stronger multilateralism and closer cooperation among countries facing sanctions.
He also stressed that regional states had the capacity and determination to resolve their challenges without relying on the United States.
The Iranian president said the two countries could expand cooperation in science, economics, industry, culture, security and defense. He highlighted cultural festivals held in Moscow, Kazan and Astrakhan and announced that Iran had issued the necessary permits for Russia’s state radio and television broadcaster to establish a representative office in Iran. He also welcomed plans for reciprocal cultural and media exhibitions in Tehran.
President Putin said trade between Russia and Iran had increased by 10.4 percent in the first eight months of 2026. He confirmed that construction of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant was continuing and said Russia was fulfilling its commitments under joint projects with Iran.
The Russian president also expressed hope for positive developments in the Middle East and described the GECF summit as constructive. He said Russia was always pleased to host the Iranian president.
