Iran and Russia formalise deepened alliance with comprehensive strategic partnership treaty

The widely anticipated treaty between Iran and Russia, entering into force in October 2025, marks a significant escalation in bilateral ties, covering defence, economic, and cultural cooperation amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.

The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Treaty between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Russian Federation formally entered into force on October 2, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the evolving relationship between the two nation...

s. Originally signed in Moscow on January 16, 2025, by the presidents of both countries, the treaty underscores a mutual commitment to deepen bilateral ties across a broad spectrum of areas, establishing a framework for sustained and expanded cooperation.

According to a statement from Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the treaty represents a turning point in Iran-Russia relations, elevating their partnership to new levels of engagement built on the principles of mutual respect, good neighbourliness, and shared strategic interests. It sets out clear priorities for bilateral cooperation in diplomatic, economic, commercial, scientific, technological, energy, investment, defence, cultural, and other critical domains. This comprehensive scope reflects the desire of both nations to create synergy in addressing significant regional challenges and safeguarding their mutual interests.

The treaty further commits Iran and Russia to uphold the principles and purposes of the United Nations Charter as the foundation for international peace and security. Both countries express a firm resolve to defend multilateralism and international law through enhanced collaboration in global institutions such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). This alignment signals their intention to counter perceived threats to the international legal order and underscores their strategic partnership within broader multilateral frameworks.

The accord notably expands on defence and security cooperation, consolidating prior commitments made under a 20-year strategic partnership ratified earlier in the year by Iran’s parliament in May 2025. This initiative included enhanced military-technical cooperation, joint military exercises, and strengthened collaboration on regional security issues such as extremism and terrorism. The treaty also promotes deeper economic integration, including fostering stronger interbank ties and increased utilization of national currencies to reduce reliance on foreign currencies.

The Russian legislature’s ratification of the treaty—first by the State Duma and subsequently by the Federation Council—has solidified the legal foundation for this strategic partnership. Both legislative bodies highlighted the treaty’s broad scope, covering defence, counter-terrorism, energy, finance, transportation, industries, agriculture, culture, science, and technology. The agreement is intended to drive long-term development of relations, formally designating Russia and Iran as strategic partners committed to extensive collaboration.

From an economic perspective, the partnership aims to boost trade, energy cooperation, and joint ventures across various sectors, with particular focus on infrastructure, agriculture, and scientific research. Cultural exchanges and technological cooperation are also highlighted as key elements designed to foster closer ties between the peoples of both nations.

Overall, this treaty signals the leaders’ shared ambition to deepen Iran-Russia relations amid a shifting geopolitical landscape. By institutionalising cooperation across multiple levels and sectors, Iran and Russia are positioning themselves as strategic allies capable of addressing mutual challenges and influencing regional and international affairs. As the treaty takes full effect, the international community will be watching closely to gauge the impact of this strengthened partnership on regional dynamics and global power balances.

Source: Noah Wire Services