Foreign Minister Abbas Araguchi says 2025 will be the “golden year” to strengthen relations between Tehran and Beijing.
After meeting with Beijing’s Chinese counterpart Wang Yi, Araguchi said he discussed a wide range of issues, including ongoing indirect negotiations between Iran and the United States.
In an interview with Iran’s Islamic Republic Broadcasting (IRIB), Aragut described his meeting with the King as long but extremely important, addressing almost every aspect of bilateral relations and international development.
“We also discussed the types of cooperation Tehran and Beijing could pursue together in the future,” he added.
The minister praised Beijing’s constructive role in past negotiations that led to the signing of the 2015 nuclear deal. He expressed confidence that China, as a “friendly country and problem solver,” will continue to play a positive role as Iran engages in indirect negotiations with the US to reach new deals.
Araguchi said seriously that he would approach the next negotiations held in Oman on Saturday, but noted that progress will depend on the severity of the other side.
He said that the indirect form of negotiations has not previously been a hindrance, but he warned against a “contradictory statement” from the US in the media.
Iran remains “cautiously optimistic,” he said.
“Iran and China have united against hegemony and bullying.”
Araguchi said he and the Chinese foreign minister also exchanged opinions on US policies, including its global bullying and hegemony actions.
He said Wang shared “a detailed explanation on the issue of tariffs” and how China resisted such policies, highlighting the shared stance between Tehran and Beijing to counter U.S. hegemony and intimidation.
Araghchi noted that the consultation also spoke to President Masoud Pezeshkian’s visit to China and major summits and regular meetings between officials from both countries.
“Pezeshkian made a bilateral visit and later attended the Shanghai Cooperation Group Summit in September, and 2025 will be the golden year of Iran-China relations,” he added.
MNA/IRN