Russian President Vladimir Putin says he will not allow international concerns over Iran's nuclear program to undermine Russia's commercial interests in the country.
In an interview with British television, Mr. Putin said Moscow also has some serious questions about Iran's nuclear program.
However, he added that Moscow also considers Iran a traditional partner with whom it has developed international cooperation.
Mr. Putin's remarks came a day after Iran promised to cooperate more closely with U.N. nuclear inspectors to ease concerns that Tehran may be building,
or trying to build rather, nuclear weapons.
Iran's atomic energy chief expressed optimism that Iran and U.N. officials can reach agreement on more intrusive inspections.