Why it matters:
These agreements reflect a broader effort by Iran and Russia to strengthen “media diplomacy” and counter Western narratives in global information spaces. Enhanced media cooperation could lead to joint content production, information exchange, and increased regional and international influence.
The Big picture:
In recent years, Tehran and Moscow have expanded their collaboration across political, military, economic, and cultural domains. These new media agreements complement the comprehensive strategic partnership signed earlier in 2025. Both countries face Western sanctions and information pressure, making media alignment a key tool in shaping public perception.
Key points:
- The first agreement was signed Monday between Press TV and the video news agency Ruptly by Ahmad Norouzi, IRIB’s Deputy of International Affairs, and Ruptly’s CEO.
- On Tuesday, a memorandum of understanding was signed between IRIB and the Russian network MIR by Abbas Mohammadnejad, Director General of International Affairs at IRIB, and MIR’s Deputy Director.
- On Wednesday, an annex to the MIR agreement was signed with BRICS TV in the presence of IRIB’s deputy and the network’s CEO.
- Separate meetings were held with senior executives of Russian state radio and television, Rossiya Segodnya multimedia center, and Zvezda TV to explore further cooperation.
Go deeper:
Russian Ambassador: Cultural Festivals Deepen Iran-Russia's ‘Brotherly Bones’
Neda Sajjadi - ahmad shirzadian
