Rouhani to meet Putin, focus on economic ties and the Syrian conflict

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani is visiting Russia and the focal point for the talks is expected to be on economic ties and the Syrian conflict.

Rouhani is scheduled to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin today.

During a meeting with Russia's Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev yesterday, Rouhani hailed the countries' bilateral cooperation and said that steps taken by Russia and Iran will help "strengthen peace and stability in the region and the entire world."

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Russia, Turkey and Iran have brokered a cease-fire that has helped reduce hostilities in Syria. They also have co-sponsored two rounds of Syria peace talks in Kazakhstan's capital, Astana, and are preparing for another round.

Russia and Iran have staunchly backed Syrian President Bashar Assad in the six-year conflict, while Turkey has supported Assad's opponents.