Bridging Diplomacy: How Diaoyutai State Guest House Shapes Global Relations in Beijing

The strategic partnership between Iran and China has taken center stage once again, following high-level discussions held in Beijing. On March 14, 2025, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi welcomed Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi and Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov at the Diaoyutai State Guest House. This meeting underscores the growing collaboration between these nations, especially regarding Iran’s nuclear program and broader geopolitical issues.

Earlier the same day, the deputy foreign ministers of Iran and Russia engaged in talks with Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu at the same venue. These discussions were pivotal, focusing primarily on the following key areas:

• Iran’s Nuclear Program: China and Russia reaffirmed Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear technology.
• Sanctions Relief: Both nations advocated for the removal of US sanctions imposed on Tehran.
• Regional Developments: The dialogue also touched upon various regional and international developments affecting the three countries.
• Cooperation in International Frameworks: The discussions involved collaboration within BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).

The SCO has gained significant importance, particularly after Iran’s full membership was officially approved in July 2023. This development marked a milestone for Iran, making it the ninth member of the bloc, which is recognized as the largest regional organization globally in terms of geographic scope and population. Established in 2001, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization aims to enhance cooperation and maintain peace among its member nations, which include China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

Moreover, at the beginning of this year, Iran officially became a member of BRICS, following an announcement five months prior regarding its acceptance. Alongside Iran, several other countries joined BRICS in January 2025. Initially comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, BRICS represents approximately 40% of the global population and accounts for a quarter of the world’s GDP.

In addition to their participation in BRICS and the SCO, Iran and China have solidified their partnership through a long-term cooperation agreement. A significant milestone in this relationship was the establishment of a 25-year partnership agreement in March 2021, aimed at enhancing their economic and political ties. This bond has become increasingly vital, particularly in the wake of renewed US sanctions imposed on Iran by former President Donald Trump in 2018 during his first term.

Trump’s administration reinstated the “maximum pressure” strategy against Iran, a policy that has significantly influenced the geopolitical landscape. Following his return to the White House in January, Trump has intensified sanctions on Tehran and reinforced his administration’s stance. This strategy was initially launched after the US unilaterally withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal in May 2018.

Simultaneously, Trump’s administration has engaged in a trade war with China, implementing new tariffs on Chinese exports. These measures include blanket tariffs of approximately 20% on top of the existing 10% duties established during his first term from 2017 to 2021. In retaliation, China has imposed duties of up to 15% on US agricultural products, escalating tensions between the two nations.

The recent meetings at the Diaoyutai State Guest House hold considerable significance, especially in light of the ongoing US pressure on both Iran and China. Trump has made threats of military intervention against Iran concerning its nuclear ambitions, while China has been actively seeking to address these conflicts through diplomatic channels. Furthermore, China has urged the White House to resolve its trade disputes with Beijing through negotiations rather than escalating tensions.

The high-level discussions held in Beijing illustrate China’s emergence as a formidable political force on the global stage, particularly in its role as a mediator in international disputes. As Iran and China continue to strengthen their partnership, the implications for regional stability and international relations are profound.

In summary, the ongoing collaboration between Iran and China not only highlights their shared interests but also emphasizes the evolving dynamics of international politics. As both nations navigate the challenges posed by US policies and seek to enhance their cooperation through various international frameworks, the future of their strategic partnership remains a focal point for global observers.