China Signals Strong Commitment to Strengthen Ties with Iran: Envoy’s Bold Statement

In a recent press conference at the Chinese Embassy in Tehran, the ambassador highlighted significant developments from the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit held on September 1. This summit is noted as the largest and most productive in the organization’s history, emphasizing the importance of high-quality development and multilateral cooperation.

The ambassador elaborated on the summit’s key outcomes, which included:

• The signing of the Tianjin Declaration.
• The approval of a comprehensive 10-year SCO strategic development plan.

He stated that the SCO remains committed to its founding principles of respect, equality, mutual development, and practical multilateral governance, which are crucial for fostering international cooperation.

Turning to China-Iran relations, the ambassador noted a pivotal meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on September 2. This meeting marked a significant step in their diplomatic relationship, being their most important encounter since the Kazan summit. Key points discussed included:

• Strengthening economic, trade, and investment cooperation.
• Deepening collaboration within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative.

Ambassador Cong emphasized that China is eager to implement the agreements reached during this high-level meeting and expand practical cooperation with Iran across various sectors.

Another critical aspect addressed was China’s unwavering support for Iran’s peaceful nuclear program. The ambassador reaffirmed Tehran’s right to develop nuclear energy for civilian purposes, advocating that all disputes should be resolved through political and diplomatic channels. He also expressed China’s strong opposition to unilateral sanctions and military interventions, warning that such actions exacerbate regional tensions and destabilize the region.

Cong praised Iran’s contributions to the SCO since its accession, noting that Tehran plays a vital role in fostering regional collaboration and multilateral initiatives. He highlighted the shared commitment between China and Iran to promote genuine multilateralism, enhance global governance, and defend international justice, especially in light of unilateral actions by more powerful nations.

Regarding the Belt and Road Initiative, Cong outlined the ongoing joint projects, emphasizing the importance of:

• High-quality construction.
• Green standards.
• Expanded connectivity for countries along the route.

The ambassador expressed China’s determination to continue practical cooperation with Iran to achieve shared development goals and mutual benefits. He stressed the necessity of aligning Chinese and Iranian positions on critical global issues, including:

• Supporting multilateralism.
• Opposing unilateralism.
• Strengthening international law.
• Fostering dialogue to prevent conflicts.

In conclusion, the ambassador underscored that ongoing cooperation between China and Iran will play a vital role in promoting peace, security, and sustainable development both regionally and globally. The emphasis on multilateralism and cooperative governance is essential for addressing current international challenges.

As the relationship between China and Iran continues to strengthen, both nations are poised to play increasingly significant roles in the global arena, advocating for a multipolar world order that prioritizes dialogue and collaboration over unilateral actions.

MNA/TSN