Russia, Iran tighten trade ties after nuclear deal

Russia could begin delivering anti-aircraft missile systems to Iran after President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on 13 April 2015 lifting a ban on the transfer of the sophisticated weapons technology, the Kremlin said.

According to reports, it was an indication that Russia intended to be one of the first countries to capitalize on the thaw in relations between Iran and world powers after the Islamic republic agreed to a framework deal earlier in the month that would prevent it from developing nuclear weapons.

• Primary Source

EurActiv, 14.04.15: Russia to deliver missiles to Iran, and open oil-for-goods business http://www.euractiv.com/sections/global-europe/russia-deliver-missiles-iran-open-oil-goods-business-313750

Deutsche Welle, 13.04.15: Russia removes ban on delivery of missiles to Iran http://dw.de/p/1F76V

ESO: Background information: Joint Statement by EU High Representative Federica Mogherini and Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, Lausanne, Switzerland, 2 April 2015 http://www.europeansources.info/record/joint-statement-by-eu-high-representative-federica-mogherini-and-iranian-foreign-minister-javad-zarif-lausanne-switzerland-2-april-2015/

BBC News, 13.04.15: Russia lifts ban on S-300 missile system delivery to Iran http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-32290335

EurActiv, 15.04.15: Germany criticises Russia’s decision to sell Iran missiles http://www.euractiv.com/sections/global-europe/germany-criticises-russias-decision-arm-iran-missiles-313786

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