Belarus and Iran plan to deepen bilateral relations, including in the field of defense, according to talks between the two countries' presidents.

The presidents of Belarus and Iran, Aleksandr Lukashenko and Masoud Pezeshkian, agreed to work more closely together in various areas, including defense, at a meeting in Minsk. Lukashenko stressed that, in the face of geopolitical challenges, the two countries could turn difficulties into opportunities. Belarus, an ally of Russia, has allowed its territory to be used for the invasion of Ukraine, while Iran has supported Russia with drones. Both countries face Western sanctions and want to strengthen economic and cultural ties.