Iran, Russia prioritize short-term, results-oriented tech cooperation

Iran and Russia have agreed to pursue short-term, outcome-driven goals in their bilateral technological cooperation, following a high-level meeting between Russian presidential science advisor Andrei Fursenko and Iran’s Vice President for Science, Technology and Knowledge-Based Economy, Hossein Afshin.

The Communication and Information Center of the Iranian vice presidency reported the two sides discussed expanding joint efforts in artificial intelligence (AI), advanced technologies, and their industrial applications.

Afshin highlighted Iran’s progress in smart oil wells, citing a project that boosted output from 47,000 to 60,000 barrels per day through real-time data monitoring.

He emphasized Iran’s focus on replicable AI projects and expressed interest in partnering with Russia on quantum technologies, photonics, and rare earth metals.

Afshin also noted Iran’s rapid AI infrastructure development despite limited investment, and stressed the country’s highly skilled workforce.

“We aim to replace uncertain long-term planning with achievable short-term objectives,” he stated.

Fursenko welcomed Iran’s proposals and stressed the global relevance of AI for solving complex challenges. He called for joint solutions benefiting both nations and emphasized foundational education in mathematics and computer science to support AI advancement.

Both sides expressed optimism about reaching tangible agreements in emerging technologies that align with their mutual strategic interests.