Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani convened in Moscow to enhance political, economic, and energy collaborations between their nations. This meeting occurred during the eighth summit of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum, which includes major natural gas producers such as Iran, Russia, Qatar, and Algeria.
Both leaders stressed the significance of strengthening bilateral relations and exploring avenues for expanded cooperation. They also focused on improving coordination among gas-exporting nations to bolster their shared interests within the energy sector.
The talks come in the wake of the ongoing Middle East conflict, triggered by US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28. In response, Iran launched missile and drone attacks across the region, including against Qatar. Amid these tensions, Qatar has played a pivotal role in diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing regional hostilities and facilitating negotiations between Iran and the United States.
Following his discussion with the Qatari emir, President Pezeshkian planned to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin to address regional developments and enhance cooperation between Tehran and Moscow. Russia has expressed its readiness to support diplomatic initiatives aimed at resolving the Middle East conflict.