Rogozin: Iran's Drawing into War Threats Russia

16.01.2012 Russian vice premier Dmitry Rogozin expressed hope that the tension appeared around Iran would be eased by joint efforts.

Russia will not transfer military nuclear technology to Tehran, assured Dmitry Rogozin. As for him, however, Iran's involvement into war would be a direct threat to Russia's security.

"For Americans, it is far away, at another side of the globe. But it is just next to our Caucasus Mountains. So, if anything happened to Iran and it is drawn into armed conflict, that would be a direct threat to our security", said Rogozin addressing the press conference in Russian mission at NATO headquarters on Friday, Jan 13.

On the other hand, he assured that Russia "as a responsible state" is obviously interested in non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction same as the US and other countries. "Moreover, being deputy chairman of Russian government in charge of nuclear industry and JSC Rosatom activities, I can tell you we're going to hold tough policy in this area. When helping countries to develop up-to-date energy sources, we make sure that nuclear technology is not used for military purposes. It won't happen. I assure you", emphasized Rogozin.

Besides, "that will not happen thanks to stiffening of export control in all countries including Russia". "We will strictly adhere to our international commitments in this area", assured Rogozin.

Alongside with that, Russia recognizes the right of any country "to have whatever needed to feel safe and comfortable", pointed out Rogozin.

"Iran has such right as well. That is why we want to tell all players of that game: "Calm down. Hold all your discussions and public debates at low profile. Take note that every single word said in public has material background", pointed out the Russian vice premier.

"Hopefully, the tension appeared around Iran will be eased by joint efforts. But if we continue escalate that tension and multiply it by situation in Syria, by consequences of civil war in Libya, and by coming "Arabic summer" in North Africa, nobody would find it funny. So, we repeat once again: "Drink some cold soda pop and calm down", reports Interfax citing Rogozin.