Iran and Belarus have solidified their military ties with a defense cooperation agreement aimed at addressing shared security threats and promoting a multipolar order. This deal expands upon an earlier memorandum and focuses on military technology and collaboration in various defense sectors. Both leaders criticized Western sanctions and emphasized the need for regional alliances independent of U.S. influence.
On Wednesday, Iran and Belarus furthered their military partnership by signing a defense cooperation agreement in Minsk. Both nations view this agreement as crucial for countering mutual security concerns and promoting a multipolar world order. The pact was signed during Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Aziz Nasirzadeh’s visit to Belarus, where he met with Belarusian Defense Minister General Viktor Khrenin, showcasing an evolution in military collaboration between them.
During the signing ceremony, Minister Nasirzadeh highlighted the agreement’s significance in enhancing defense interactions. He stated it would facilitate a “reinforcement of defense and security interactions through practical measures.” In response, Minister Khrenin praised the agreement, calling it a basis for “long-term stability in an era of escalating unilateralism.” The deal expands upon a previous 2023 memorandum, targeting sectors such as military technology, counterterrorism, and joint training initiatives.
The leaders also discussed collaboration in multilateral forums like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to tackle “artificial crises imposed by hegemonic powers.” Both ministers voiced concerns regarding Western sanctions and NATO’s expansion, promoting an approach rooted in “defensive diplomacy” and strengthening regional alliances without U.S. or European influence.
Additionally, the agreement emphasizes technological exchange, particularly in leveraging Iran’s robust domestic defense manufacturing capabilities for mutual benefit. Observers note this accord results from ongoing engagements between the two nations, including a notable January 2024 meeting in Tehran involving military leaders from both countries.
It is significant to note that this agreement coincides with increasing pressure from the U.S. and Europe on both Belarus and Iran. As close allies of Russia and China, Belarus has faced sustained pressure from Western nations, particularly since the Russo-Ukrainian War. Iran, on the other hand, has long been subjected to Western sanctions. While the language of the agreement is not overtly confrontational, its focus on “multipolarity” and “resistance to coercion” mirrors the shared perspectives of both Tehran and Minsk.
In summary, the recent defense agreement between Iran and Belarus marks a significant step in their military collaboration, driven by shared security concerns and the desire for a multipolar world order. This accord builds upon previous understandings and emphasizes military technology, counterterrorism efforts, and joint training. Both nations aim to strengthen their defense capabilities while navigating geopolitical pressures from the West, and their joint rhetoric highlights a commitment to resist unilateral hegemonic strategies.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com
