Russia signed a strategic partnership treaty with Iran on Friday that follows similar pacts with China and North Korea. All three countries are adversaries of the United States, and Russia has used its ties with them to help blunt the impact of Western sanctions and boost its war effort in Ukraine.

The presidents of Russia and Iran have held talks in the Kremlin on Friday before the signing of a broad cooperation pact between the two countries

Russian and Iranian officials say the “comprehensive strategic partnership treaty” covers all areas -– from trade and military cooperation to science, education and culture. The 20-year treaty could be extended further.