Russian President Vladimir Putin called for the further expansion of ties with the Islamic Republic of Iran, following the passing of Iranian President Ebrahim Rayeesi.

Afghan Voice Agency (AVA) - Monitoring: Putin, in a phone call with Mohammad Mokhber, acting president of Iran on Monday noon, offered his deep condolences to the Supreme Leader of Iran's Islamic Revolution, as well as all Iranian people. 
Putin said, Russia has lost a close friend and a reliable ally. 
The Russian leader expressed confidence that Iran will go through the tough time, following the demise of President Rayeesi and his accompanying delegation. 
Rayeesi and his companions, including Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian, were killed in a copter crash in Iran's East Azerbaijan province on Sunday. 
The caretaker Iranian executive chief, in turn, called Russia a strategic partner for Iran, adding we have been able to change many of the power equations, thanks to your prudence and proper cooperation by the late President Rayeesi. 
Mokhber also said Iran respects Russia's stance regarding international developments, adding we will seek to further promote bilateral cooperation between Tehran and Moscow./Fars