Putin believes rumors of a plot against him in Tehran were attempt to derail talks

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Answering a question sent by SMS during a national phone-in why Vladimir Putin decided to go to Iran despite reports of a planned plot against him, the Russian president reminded that the visit had been scheduled long ago. “Russia is interested in solving all problems that occur in the Caspian region. One must say that we have come to consensus with our major partners,” noted Putin mentioning Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. The visit was aimed to making the relations comprehensive. As for the relations with Iran, Putin reminded that in some aspects, especially in the power engineering, “we are very significant partners.” Russia, undoubtedly, knows about the Iranian nuclear problem as well, but is trying to solve it through talks.

“As for the threats (the plot) it is nothing else but an attempt to derail the visit,” Putin added. As Putin believes, it is harmful for the international communication. “A direct dialog with countries facing problems is more effective than the policy of threats, sanctions and so on,” he believes.

The hotline with President Putin is being held for the sixth time. It is being broadcasted by Rossiya, Vesti, and the First Channel, as well as Radio Rossii and Mayak Radio. The number of questions asked by phone and the internet is over 1.6mn now. Most of them concern social issues.