The presidents of Russia and Iran have met on the sidelines of a conference in Central Asia, as both countries seek to build a closer partnership. President Vladimir Putin said ties with Tehran were a “priority.”

Russian President Vladimir Putin met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Friday, as their two countries form a burgeoning alliance against the West.

The meeting comes with Tehran accused of supplying weapons for Russia’s war in Ukraine and as concerns grow over escalating attacks between Israel and Iran.