Iran Foreign Minister Makes Surprise Russia Visit to Bolster Backing in Ceasefire Talks

Iran is seeking to expand its diplomatic support base by visiting key ally Russia as ceasefire talks with the US remain deadlocked.

AFP and Russia's state-run TASS reported that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in St. Petersburg on April 27 and began his official schedule.

During the trip, Araghchi is to meet Russian officials to discuss regional issues, including the war with the US and negotiations to end it. He is also expected to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Soon after arriving in Russia, Araghchi wrote on Telegram that Iran and Russia had remained in close consultation on a wide range of issues and continued bilateral dialogue.

The US and Iran had been scheduled to hold a second round of talks in Pakistan over the previous weekend, but the meeting was canceled after the two sides failed to narrow their differences.

Iran said its discussions with mediator Pakistan had been successful, but then headed directly to Russia.

Iran and Russia have maintained close cooperation in recent years, including signing a 20-year comprehensive strategic partnership treaty last year.

Russia has condemned US and Israeli attacks on Iran. There have also been reports that Moscow provided Tehran with information on the location and movements of US forces.

Araghchi is expected to explain Iran's negotiating goals and future plans to Russian officials and seek their support.

At the same time, Iran has also stepped up outreach to other countries in the region.

Iranian state media reported that Araghchi held a series of phone calls on April 25 and April 26 with the foreign ministers of five countries, including Egypt, France and Saudi Arabia. On April 26, he also visited Oman and met Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said.

Emphasizing coordination with Oman, he said the two countries, which control the strait, should work closely together to protect shared interests.

CNN reported that he also urged France to encourage European countries to play a constructive role in securing a ceasefire.

Park Sang-kyung, Hankyung.com reporter highseoul@hankyung.com