Russian President Vladimir Putin has praised “strategic” relations between his country and Iran.

The protocol of China's transport corridor to Europe through Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Iran and Turkey has been signed by the ministers and representatives of the member countries of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO).

It appears Iran’s ‘Look East’ policy of strengthening ties with neighboring countries and Eastern powers in response to the West’s relentless pressure campaign is paying rich dividends. 

The Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL) has ordered Russia to build a ship for use in the Solyanka port which the two countries are developing with joint investment.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says the recent incident where a ship blocked the Suez Canal for almost a week highlighted the importance of a corridor being developed by Iran, Russia and India.