Russian president ‌Vladimir Putin ‌(left) shakes hands with Iran's security chief Mohsen Rezaei during a meeting at the Kremlin. (Sputnik/EPA Images pic)MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin received Iran's security chief, Mohsen Rezaei, in Moscow Thursday to discuss strengthening ties between their two countries, including a pipeline to import Russian gas.

Speaking to journalists after their meeting, Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, called it "an extremely important exchange", according to remarks reported by the Iranian embassy.

"During the meeting with Mr. Vladimir Putin, discussions were held regarding the construction of gas pipelines from Russia to Iran," said Rezaei, Iranian state TV reported.