DEVELOPMENT OF RUSSIAN-IRANIAN CULTURAL RELATIONS AT THE BEGINNING OF THE 21ST CENTURY

The article touches upon the specifics of the development of Russian-Iranian cultural ties at the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries. Over the past 25 years, these relations have significantly intensified mainly as a result of a purposeful and state-funded policy of the leadership of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which ensures the spread of Iranian-Islamic culture and the Persian language in the world, including in Russia. At the same time, Iran resists penetration of any cultural influence “alien to Islamic values”, which requires a carefully thought-out approach in promoting the achievements of Russian culture on its territory. Russia regards Iran as an influential regional force and a geopolitical ally for strengthening stability in the region and a multipolar world. Development of ties with Iran at this stage is a priority in the militarytechnical, scientific-educational, trade and economic spheres. Cultural cooperation with Iran at the state level is not given independent significance and the role of some favorable background is assigned. There is an underestimation of the role of the cultural factor in shaping the structure of Russia’s strategic interaction with the Islamic Republic of Iran.