WANA (Dec 26) – Iran’s Foreign Minister stated in an article that Iran and China, united against unilateralism and bullying, will always align with development, prosperity, cooperation, and friendship among Global South countries. He emphasized that Iran and China are “friends for difficult times.”

 

Strategic Cooperation Between Iran and China

In an article published in China’s People’s Daily ahead of his visit to Beijing, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araqchi expressed pride in the opportunity to visit Beijing for consultations with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, coinciding with the Chinese Spring Festival. The visit comes at a critical historical moment, following the successful meeting of the two countries’ presidents on the sidelines of Iran’s first official participation as a BRICS member.

 

Araqchi highlighted that nuclear issues are integral to Iran-China strategic cooperation. Reflecting on his 2019 visit to Beijing for the Joint Consultative Meeting on the JCPOA, he emphasized the importance of a responsible approach to sustaining agreements and treating Iran as an equal partner.

 

China’s Development: A Beacon of Hope

He noted that China’s success as a developing country provides hope for others facing challenges. President Xi Jinping’s vision of building a “community with a shared future for mankind” aligns with Iran’s approach to fostering harmony and cooperation. Araqchi emphasized the Iranian wisdom that “the past lights the way to the future” and that “behind every darkness, there is light.”

 

Iran-China Relations: A Legacy of Strength and Trust

Highlighting the historic and comprehensive nature of Iran-China relations, Araqchi praised the achievements of recent decades, rooted in mutual respect, justice, equality, and non-interference. The two countries have further solidified their ties through a 25-year comprehensive cooperation plan, promoting trust and collaboration across various sectors.

 

Promoting Multilateralism Together

Araqchi underlined that Iran and China have long cooperated to advance multilateralism, defend shared interests in international forums, and foster cultural, economic, and security cooperation. Examples include joint political and defense coordination, participation in the Belt and Road Initiative, and active roles in organizations like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS.

 

Shared Concerns and Priorities

On a global scale, Araqchi highlighted the mutual interests of Iran and China in promoting multilateralism and addressing challenges. Both nations prioritize collective prosperity and security, with hopes for China’s successful leadership of the SCO in 2025.

 

Middle East Challenges

Discussing the Middle East, Araqchi criticized the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and called for immediate action to protect Palestinian rights. He stressed the importance of respecting Syria’s sovereignty and emphasized that regional populations must determine their own futures without external interference.

 

Standing on the Right Side of History

Araqchi concluded that, despite efforts by some countries to impose their values and interests through sanctions and pressure, Iran and China will remain committed to development, cooperation, and opposing unilateralism. As two ancient Asian civilizations and friends forged in hardship, they will continue to climb new heights together, contributing to global peace and development.

 

The Foreign Minister expressed optimism that the “golden future of Iran-China relations” will demonstrate the strength of their strategic partnership, guided by the Chinese wisdom that “actions speak louder than words.”