Cooperation with China, Distrust of the U.S., and Defense of the Peaceful Nuclear Path
WANA (Sep 21) – Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, in an extensive interview with China Central Television (CCTV), discussed Iran–China relations, the nuclear issue, the U.S. role in the global order, and regional developments. His remarks underscored that while Tehran leans on strategic cooperation with Beijing, it continues to maintain a critical and distrustful stance toward the West—particularly the United States.
Iran–China Relations: From History to Strategy
Pezeshkian described Tehran–Beijing relations as historical and deep-rooted, noting that they now continue within a long-term strategic framework. He praised President Xi Jinping’s idea of “global governance,” while stressing that it only has meaning when grounded in rule of law without double standards, pragmatism, and respect for all nations.
He pointed to China’s mediation in the Iran–Saudi agreement as an example demonstrating Beijing’s ability to play a positive and constructive role in regional stability.
Presidents of Iran and China. Social media / WANA News Agency
Economy and Operational Agreements
The Iranian president reminded that China has been Tehran’s largest trading partner for twelve consecutive years. He emphasized the full implementation of the 25-year Iran–China cooperation plan, insisting that it should not remain merely on paper. He also highlighted the Belt and Road Initiative as a platform for expanding trade, scientific and cultural exchanges, and fostering greater stability in the region.
The Nuclear Issue: Stressing Its Peaceful Nature
Pezeshkian repeatedly underlined that Iran’s nuclear program is entirely peaceful and that Tehran has never sought nuclear weapons. He called this stance “a matter of principle and unchangeable policy.”
At the same time, he accused the West of double standards: “Iran has honored its commitments, but the U.S. withdrew from the deal and the Europeans also failed to fulfill theirs.” According to him, Iran has accepted the highest level of IAEA inspections, yet those same institutions have remained silent in the face of attacks on its nuclear facilities.
New mural at Tehran’s Enghelab Square: Iran’s next-generation centrifuges and nuclear capabilities, accompanied by the slogan “Knowledge is Power.” 27th Aug 2025. Social Media / WANA News Agency
Distrust of the U.S. and Criticism of Israel
The Iranian president also addressed U.S. policies, describing them as examples of “breach of agreements and unilateralism” that, in his words, have fueled Iranian distrust toward Washington.
He stressed that Iran would never initiate war but would respond forcefully to any attack. Referring to Israel, Pezeshkian condemned “assassinations, bombings, and the siege of people,” and criticized international institutions for remaining silent, calling this a sign of the dominance of coercive logic.
Relatives of Davood Eyvazi, one of those killed in Israeli strikes, mourn during his funeral in Behesht Zahra Cemetery in southern Tehran, Iran, July 11, 2025. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)
Culture and Civilization: Pillars of a New World Order
Pezeshkian emphasized expanding cultural, academic, tourism, and sports exchanges between Iran and China, asserting that ancient civilizations will be key players in rebuilding the future global order. For Iran, he added, values such as justice, fairness, peace, and tranquility are not political slogans but deeply held beliefs.
In sum, Pezeshkian’s interview with CCTV outlined the new Iranian administration’s clear stance: commitment to strategic cooperation with China, insistence on the peaceful nature of its nuclear program, deep distrust of the United States, and determination to play an active role in shaping a more just global order.
Annual Arrival of 60,000 Chinese Tourists to Iran: An Opportunity to Expand Cultural and Scientific Ties
WANA (Sep 17) – The Chinese ambassador to Iran announced that nearly 60,000 Chinese tourists visit Iran each year, calling it an opportunity to deepen cultural exchanges, scientific collaboration, and expand economic and trade relations between the two countries. During his visit to Mazandaran Province on Wednesday and in a meeting with officials at […]
