Iran, Russia Foreign Ministers Hold Talks on UNGA Sidelines in New York

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, with the two sides exchanging views on regional and international developments.

According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, the discussions centred on Iran, and both ministers underscored the importance of resolving the conflict involving the country through diplomatic means.

The meeting adds to a busy week of diplomacy for Araghchi, who has held talks with several foreign ministers and other officials attending the General Assembly session.

Moscow's engagement with Tehran places Russia among a small group of countries that retain friendly ties with Iran, which has contended with years of international isolation over its nuclear programme and its backing of regional proxy groups, including Hezbollah, Hamas and the Houthis.

At this year's General Assembly, the wars in Iran and Gaza have shaped much of the agenda. The leaders of Iraq, Lebanon and Egypt were scheduled to address the world body later on Friday.