One of the last high level diplomatic visitors to China in 2024 was Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, who held talks in Beijing with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on December 28.
The timing of this important visit is surely not coincidental, coming at the end of a tumultuous year in the West Asia region, with the continuing genocide in Gaza, spreading conflict involving Lebanon, Yemen and other states, exchanges of missile fire between Iran and Israel and, earlier in December, the overthrow of the legitimate Syrian government of Bashar al-Assad by extremist terrorist forces massively backed by outside powers.
At their meeting, Wang said that China called on the international community to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries in the Middle East, respect the legitimate and reasonable concerns of those countries, respect the independent choices made by the people of the Middle East, and respect the historical and cultural traditions of countries in that region.
Noting that the Middle East belongs to the people of the Middle East, he added that it is not an arena for major-power rivalry, nor should it be the victim of geopolitical competition among countries outside the region.
According to the Xinhua News Agency, the Chinese Foreign Minister went on to say that the successful meeting between the two heads of state during the 16th BRICS Summit, held in Kazan, Russia, provided strategic guidance for deepening China-Iran relations.
Noting the time-honoured China-Iran relations and the traditional friendship between the two peoples, Wang said that enhanced coordination and cooperation between China and Iran will not only benefit the two peoples, but also contribute to regional and world peace, stability and development. The two sides should continue to support each other on issues concerning their core interests, steadily promote practical cooperation and enhance cooperation in multilateral fields.
He called for closer coordination and cooperation within the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) framework and for the upgrading and strengthening of BRICS cooperation, to better safeguard the common interests of the Global South.
In the face of instability and uncertainty in today’s world, Wang emphasised that China and Iran must stay focused and strengthen solidarity and cooperation, jointly advocate and practice genuine multilateralism, and work for a more just and equitable global governance system.
Araghchi said that developing and deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between Iran and China is the priority of Iran’s foreign policy, and Iran attaches great importance to China’s important role in upholding justice in international affairs.
The Palestine Chronicle reported that the top diplomats from China and Iran called for the restoration of Palestinian rights and the termination of Israel’s occupation, emphasising the need for an immediate ceasefire, full troop withdrawal, and humanitarian aid.
In a joint statement, it quoted the Anadolu news agency as reporting, the foreign ministers of China and Iran stressed the urgent need to address the Palestinian issue through the restoration of the Palestinian people’s legitimate rights and the end of Israel’s occupation,
The Palestine Chronicle report continued: “This visit marked Foreign Minister Araghchi’s first official trip to China since taking office. During the discussions, the two sides also addressed the situation in Lebanon, urging the effective implementation of the ceasefire agreements, and reiterating their commitment to respecting Syria’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
“While Iran has consistently been a vocal supporter of Palestinian resistance, China – historically a strong advocate for Palestinian rights – has emerged as one of the leading voices in the call for a ceasefire in Gaza and an end to Israeli violence against Palestinians.
“China’s firm advocacy for Palestinian rights and its ongoing criticism of Israel’s actions have been repeatedly expressed at the United Nations Security Council and other international forums. The Chinese government has been a steadfast critic of Israel’s military actions in Gaza, condemning the ongoing genocide against the Palestinian people.
“Both China and Iran continue to stand in solidarity with Palestine, calling for international action to end the Israeli occupation and secure a just and lasting peace in the region.”
The South China Morning Post observed that “China has also been a vocal source of support for Iran several times on the international stage, particularly since the war in Gaza erupted.
“In September, when fears of an all-out war between Israel and Hezbollah… escalated, Wang told Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian that ‘China has always been a trustworthy partner of Iran and will, as always, support Iran’.
“That support may be more important than ever when Trump takes office in January.”
According to the Iranian newspaper Tehran Times, reporting on Araghchi’s arrival in China, the minister noted, “For years, we have consistently maintained close consultations with China on all regional and international matters. The current situation is highly sensitive, with escalating tensions in the region and numerous international challenges. Furthermore, our nuclear discussions will encounter new dynamics in the coming year, making increased dialogue with China essential.”
It noted that in an article published in China’s People’s Daily on the day of his arrival, Araghchi highlighted the importance of his visit in shaping the “next golden 50 years” of cooperation between the two countries.
He underscored Iran and China’s mutual commitment to multilateralism, economic collaboration, and shared opposition to unilateralism in international affairs.
“The next golden 50 years of Iran-China relations will demonstrate that this visit marks the beginning of a new chapter of strategic cooperation between the two countries.”
On Syria, the minister reiterated Iran’s stance on respecting the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasising that the Syrian people should determine their own future without external interference.
“We are witnessing unprecedented changes in the world that have simultaneously created complex opportunities and challenges,” Araghchi said, stressing that countries are at a historical crossroads between cooperation and confrontation, openness and exclusion, chaos and peace.
Araghchi criticised states that impose their values and interests on others through coercion, sanctions, and double standards. He argued that dividing the world into “democratic” and “non-democratic” blocs distorts reality and undermines global harmony. “Iran and China will always stand on the right side of history,” he said, vowing to champion development, cooperation, and friendship among nations in the Global South while resisting unilateralism and bullying.
The Tehran Times added that Iran’s former ambassador to China, Mohammad Keshavarzzadeh, also emphasised the critical importance of strengthening Tehran’s ties with Beijing in light of evolving global dynamics. Speaking in an interview with the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), Keshavarzzadeh highlighted the changing international landscape and the return of Donald Trump to the US presidency as key factors necessitating closer cooperation between the two nations.
“Given the current circumstances the international community is experiencing, coupled with the return of Donald Trump to power in the United States, the development of Iran’s relationship with China is no longer a matter of choice but has become an unavoidable necessity,” Keshavarzzadeh remarked.
A subsequent commentary, also carried in the Tehran Times, noted that, following his meeting with Wang Yi, “The strategic partnership between Iran and China is described as ‘ironclad’ by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who emphasises that it is built on deep cultural and civilisational ties and rooted in shared values and common interests.
Both ministers, it added, highlighted the necessity of a peaceful and inclusive transition in Syria that would reflect the aspirations of all segments of its society.
The two ministers also pledged to strengthen cooperation in the fight against terrorism, which remains a significant threat to regional security. Additionally, they touched on critical international issues such as the ongoing nuclear talks, the lifting of sanctions against Iran, and ways to enhance bilateral cooperation within the frameworks of the BRICS group of emerging economies and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO).
Araghchi noted that Iran is committed to leveraging every available capacity to deepen its strategic partnership with China, particularly through the landmark 25-year cooperation agreement signed in March 2021. This agreement serves as a solid foundation for expanding ties in various sectors, including trade, energy, and technology.
China, which is Iran’s largest trading partner, continues to stand by Iran, particularly in the face of illegal sanctions imposed by the United States.
Furthermore, the two ministers called for the international community to support the Palestinian cause by recognising the legal rights of the Palestinian people and working towards an end to the occupation.
Whilst in Beijing, Araghchi also met with Nurlan Yermekbayev, the SCO secretary general.
Araghchi highlighted the significance of the SCO, which includes major global players like China, Russia, and India, as a vehicle for enhancing cooperation in areas such as security, trade, and development.
Yermekbayev welcomed Iran’s full membership in the SCO, which was granted in 2023, and expressed appreciation for Iran’s initiatives to expand the organisation’s activities in economic and banking sectors.
The following articles were originally published by the Xinhua News Agency, Palestine Chronicle and Tehran Times.
Chinese FM urges respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity in Middle East
BEIJING, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) — China on Saturday called on the international community to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries in the Middle East, respect the legitimate and reasonable concerns of those countries, respect the independent choices made by the people of the Middle East, and respect the historical and cultural traditions of countries in that region.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi made the remarks when holding talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi in Beijing.
Noting that the Middle East belongs to the people of the Middle East, Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that it is not an arena for major-power rivalry, nor should it be the victim of geopolitical competition among countries outside the region.
For the region to emerge from chaos and enjoy stability, the pressing task is to achieve an immediate ceasefire and stop violence, ease the humanitarian crisis, adhere to political settlement and resume dialogue and negotiation, Wang said.
He said it is hoped that all parties will play a constructive role in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East, instead of trying to impose their will on the people of the Middle East or pointing fingers at Middle Eastern countries, let alone resorting to sanctions and pressure, provoking confrontation or resorting to force at every turn.
As a good friend and partner of Middle Eastern countries, China has always firmly supported them in independently exploring development paths, in resolving issues through dialogue and consultation, in safeguarding sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and in opposing external interference, Wang stressed.
China, Iran agree to further implement comprehensive cooperation plan
BEIJING, Dec. 28 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi in Beijing on Saturday, agreeing to further promote the implementation of the China-Iran comprehensive cooperation plan.
Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that the successful meeting between the two heads of state during the 16th BRICS Summit provided strategic guidance for deepening China-Iran relations.
Noting the time-honored China-Iran relations and the traditional friendship between the two peoples, Wang said that enhanced coordination and cooperation between China and Iran will not only benefit the two peoples, but also contribute to regional and world peace, stability and development.
The two sides should continue to support each other on issues concerning their core interests, steadily promote practical cooperation and enhance cooperation in multilateral fields, Wang said.
He called for closer coordination and cooperation within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) framework and for the upgrading and strengthening of BRICS cooperation, to better safeguard the common interests of the Global South.
In the face of instability and uncertainty in today’s world, Wang said China and Iran must stay focused and strengthen solidarity and cooperation, jointly advocate and practice genuine multilateralism, and work for a more just and equitable global governance system.
Araghchi said that developing and deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between Iran and China is the priority of Iran’s foreign policy, and Iran attaches great importance to China’s important role in upholding justice in international affairs.
Iran abides by the one-China principle and firmly supports China’s legitimate position on issues concerning China’s core interests such as Xinjiang, Xizang and human rights, Araghchi said.
He said that Iran looks forward to closer high-level exchanges with China, deepening mutually beneficial cooperation, strengthening communication and coordination within multilateral frameworks such as the United Nations, the SCO and BRICS, and safeguarding common interests.
The two sides agreed to further promote the implementation of the China-Iran comprehensive cooperation plan, strengthen the exchange of experience in governance in the fields of politics and diplomacy, legislative bodies, law enforcement and justice, economy and trade.
They also agreed to increase cooperation in youth, education, sports, science and technology, culture, tourism, ecological and environmental protection, health, radio and television, and deepen people-to-people, sub-national and sister-city exchanges.
On the Iranian nuclear issue, Wang stressed that China always stands for a political and diplomatic resolution and upholds the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), opposes sanctions and pressure at every turn and firmly supports Iran in safeguarding its legitimate rights and interests. He also called on all relevant parties to play a constructive role in resuming dialogue and negotiation.
Araghchi expressed appreciation for China’s important role in promoting and maintaining the JCPOA and a willingness to maintain close communication with China.
China, Iran Unite in Strong Call for End to Israeli Occupation and Palestinian Freedom
Dec 28 (Palestine Chronicle) — Top diplomats from China and Iran have called for the restoration of Palestinian rights and the termination of Israel’s occupation, emphasizing the need for an immediate ceasefire, full troop withdrawal, and humanitarian aid.
In a joint statement issued on Saturday, the foreign ministers of China and Iran stressed the urgent need to address the Palestinian issue through the restoration of the Palestinian people’s legitimate rights and the end of Israel’s occupation, Anadolu news agency reported.
The statement followed a meeting in Beijing between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Both diplomats highlighted the pressing need for an immediate ceasefire, a full Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza, and the provision of emergency humanitarian assistance.
The two leaders also discussed the broader situation in the Middle East, agreeing that the region must not be used as a battleground for the geopolitical rivalries of major powers. They reaffirmed that the future of Middle Eastern nations must be determined by the people of the region, not external forces.
“The future and destiny of Middle Eastern countries should be determined by their own peoples,” the statement read. “The international community must respect their sovereignty, security, stability, unity, and territorial integrity.”
This visit marked Foreign Minister Araghchi’s first official trip to China since taking office. During the discussions, the two sides also addressed the situation in Lebanon, urging the effective implementation of the ceasefire agreements, and reiterating their commitment to respecting Syria’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
The talks also extended to Iran’s nuclear program, with Wang Yi reaffirming China’s support for a diplomatic resolution to the issue. He strongly criticized the imposition of unilateral sanctions and coercive tactics, stressing the importance of dialogue and negotiations in resolving the matter.
“China firmly supports Iran in safeguarding its legitimate rights and interests,” Wang stated, reaffirming Beijing’s commitment to its longstanding partnership with Tehran.
While Iran has consistently been a vocal supporter of Palestinian resistance, China — historically a strong advocate for Palestinian rights — has emerged as one of the leading voices in the call for a ceasefire in Gaza and an end to Israeli violence against Palestinians.
China’s firm advocacy for Palestinian rights and its ongoing criticism of Israel’s actions have been repeatedly expressed at the United Nations Security Council and other international forums. The Chinese government has been a steadfast critic of Israel’s military actions in Gaza, condemning the ongoing genocide against the Palestinian people.
Both China and Iran continue to stand in solidarity with Palestine, calling for international action to end the Israeli occupation and secure a just and lasting peace in the region.
Gaza Genocide
The ongoing Israeli assault on the Gaza Strip, which began on October 7, 2023, has led to a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented scale. As the death toll among besieged and starved Palestinian civilians continues to rise daily, Israel is currently facing charges of genocide against Palestinians before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
According to Gaza’s Ministry of Health, at least 45,484 Palestinians have been killed, and 108,090 wounded in Israel’s ongoing genocide in Gaza starting on October 7, 2023. The toll is expected to rise further, with at least 11,000 people still unaccounted for, presumed dead under the rubble of their homes across Gaza.
The war, which Palestinians call “Operation Al-Aqsa Flood,” began after a military operation carried out by Hamas on Israeli territory. Israel reports that 1,200 of its soldiers and civilians were killed during the initial attack on October 7. However, Israeli media have raised concerns that a significant number of Israeli casualties were caused by ‘friendly fire’ during the assault.
Human rights organizations, both Palestinian and international, have reported that the overwhelming majority of the casualties in Gaza are women and children. The ongoing violence has also exacerbated an acute famine, with thousands of children among the dead, highlighting the severity of the humanitarian disaster.
The war has displaced nearly two million people from their homes across Gaza, with the majority of the displaced forced into the already overcrowded southern region of the Strip. The population in Gaza remains trapped in the ongoing conflict, with little access to basic necessities such as food, water, and medical care.
Iran FM in China for ‘new chapter’ in bilateral ties
TEHRAN, Dec. 27 (Tehran Times) — Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has embarked on an official visit to China, aiming to deepen the longstanding partnership between Tehran and Beijing.
Araghchi and his delegation arrived in Beijing on Friday at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi.
Speaking to reporters upon his arrival in Beijing, Araghchi described his trip as a critical opportunity for consultations on key regional, international, and bilateral issues. “The primary purpose of this visit is to engage in consultations on regional, international, and bilateral issues,” he said.
Reflecting on the longstanding partnership between Iran and China, the minister noted, “For years, we have consistently maintained close consultations with China on all regional and international matters. The current situation is highly sensitive, with escalating tensions in the region and numerous international challenges. Furthermore, our nuclear discussions will encounter new dynamics in the coming year, making increased dialogue with China essential.”
Araghchi emphasized the strength of Iran-China bilateral relations, stating, “These relations have always been solid and remain strong. It is only natural that we continue our dialogue on various issues to address shared concerns.”
He also highlighted the timing of the visit, calling it particularly significant. “This trip coincides with an opportune moment and aligns with the invitation from our Chinese friends. At the start of the new year, we aim to strategize and prepare for the challenges ahead, including those related to the region, global developments, and the United Nations Security Council,” Araghchi explained.
‘Start of a golden era’
In an article published in China’s People’s Daily on the day of his arrival, Araghchi highlighted the importance of the visit in shaping the “next golden 50 years” of cooperation between the two countries.
He underscored Iran and China’s mutual commitment to multilateralism, economic collaboration, and shared opposition to unilateralism in international affairs.
“The next golden 50 years of Iran-China relations will demonstrate that this visit marks the beginning of a new chapter of strategic cooperation between the two countries,” he wrote.
The Iranian foreign minister highlighted the deep-rooted cooperation between Tehran and Beijing, including political and defense coordination, the exchange of high-level delegations, and joint initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
He also pointed to their collaboration in the BRICS group of emerging economies and their role in brokering peace in the region, including the landmark agreement between Iran and Saudi Arabia in March 2023.
“Iran and China share common interests and concerns not only at bilateral and regional levels but also on trans-regional and international platforms,” Araghchi noted. Both nations, he added, firmly believe in multilateralism and work together in global mechanisms to promote shared prosperity.
Araghchi also turned his attention to pressing issues in West Asia, particularly the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He condemned Israel’s ongoing genocide, supported by certain world powers, and called for an immediate ceasefire and delivery of humanitarian aid. He criticized the international community’s inaction, calling it a failure of responsibility.
On Syria, the minister reiterated Iran’s stance on respecting the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasizing that the Syrian people should determine their own future without external interference.
“We are witnessing unprecedented changes in the world that have simultaneously created complex opportunities and challenges,” Araghchi said, stressing that countries are at a historical crossroads between cooperation and confrontation, openness and exclusion, chaos and peace.
Araghchi criticized states that impose their values and interests on others through coercion, sanctions, and double standards. He argued that dividing the world into “democratic” and “non-democratic” blocs distorts reality and undermines global harmony. “Iran and China will always stand on the right side of history,” he said, vowing to champion development, cooperation, and friendship among nations in the Global South while resisting unilateralism and bullying.
China remains Iran’s largest trading partner, and both countries have faced sanctions imposed by the United States. Their relationship was solidified in March 2021 with the signing of a long-term strategic partnership agreement aimed at reinforcing their economic and political alliance.
Iran’s former ambassador to China, Mohammad Keshavarzzadeh, also emphasized the critical importance of strengthening Tehran’s ties with Beijing in light of evolving global dynamics. Speaking in an interview with the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), Keshavarzzadeh highlighted the changing international landscape and the potential resurgence of Donald Trump in the U.S. presidency as key factors necessitating closer cooperation between the two nations.
“Given the current circumstances the international community is experiencing, coupled with the potential return of Donald Trump to power in the United States, the development of Iran’s relationship with China is no longer a matter of choice but has become an unavoidable necessity,” Keshavarzzadeh remarked.
Ironclad partnership
TEHRAN, Dec 28 (Tehran Times) — The strategic partnership between Iran and China is described as “ironclad” by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who emphasizes that it is built on deep cultural and civilizational ties and rooted in shared values and common interests.
Araghchi, who is currently on an official visit to Beijing, made the statement after a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Saturday.
The two ministers discussed a broad range of regional and international issues, including the latest security developments in West Asia.
They both agreed that the region should not become a battleground for external powers seeking to advance their own geopolitical agendas. Araghchi and Wang underscored that the future of West Asia must be determined by the people of the region, free from outside interference.
Araghchi and Wang expressed mutual concern over the escalating instability and terrorist activity in West Asia, particularly in Syria, and called for efforts to preserve the country’s national unity and territorial integrity.
Both ministers highlighted the necessity of a peaceful and inclusive transition in Syria that would reflect the aspirations of all segments of its society.
The two diplomats also pledged to strengthen cooperation in the fight against terrorism, which remains a significant threat to regional security. Additionally, they touched on critical international issues such as the ongoing nuclear talks, the lifting of sanctions against Iran, and ways to enhance bilateral cooperation within the frameworks of the BRICS group of emerging economies and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
Araghchi noted that Iran is committed to leveraging every available capacity to deepen its strategic partnership with China, particularly through the landmark 25-year cooperation agreement signed in March 2021. This agreement serves as a solid foundation for expanding ties in various sectors, including trade, energy, and technology.
China, which is Iran’s largest trading partner, continues to stand by Iran, particularly in the face of illegal sanctions imposed by the United States. Wang, reaffirming Beijing’s position, declared that China supports Iran’s legitimate rights and interests, especially in the context of the 2015 nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
The meeting also provided an opportunity for both sides to assess the progress made in the implementation of the strategic partnership agreement and explore further opportunities for cooperation.
The two sides also insisted that the international community must respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of West Asian nations and not allow the region to become a playground for geopolitical competition.
Araghchi and Wang also emphasized the importance of resolving regional conflicts through peaceful dialogue and adherence to international law. They particularly stressed the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon and a comprehensive approach to counterterrorism, reconciliation, and humanitarian efforts in Syria.
Furthermore, the two ministers called for the international community to support the Palestinian cause by recognizing the legal rights of the Palestinian people and working towards an end to the occupation.
They reiterated the importance of humanitarian aid for the region and agreed that peace in West Asia can only be achieved through a political process that respects the rights of all parties involved.
SCO offering a counterbalance to Western-dominated institutions
In a separate meeting in Beijing, Araghchi also met with Nurlan Yermekbayev, the SCO secretary general.
The discussion centered on the growing role of the SCO in promoting multilateralism and securing the political and economic interests of member states.
Araghchi highlighted the significance of the SCO, which includes major global players like China, Russia, and India, as a vehicle for enhancing cooperation in areas such as security, trade, and development.
Yermekbayev welcomed Iran’s full membership in the SCO, which was granted in 2023, and expressed appreciation for Iran’s initiatives to expand the organization’s activities in economic and banking sectors.
Both sides agreed on the importance of increasing coordination within the SCO to address global challenges, especially in relation to regional stability.
The SCO has increasingly become an influential platform for global diplomacy, offering a counterbalance to Western-dominated institutions. Araghchi’s visit further solidified Iran’s commitment to its partnership with China and its growing role within the SCO.
In a message shared on social media, Araghchi also emphasized the deep-rooted cultural and civilizational ties between Iran and China, noting that their strategic partnership is based on shared values and mutual interests.
He reaffirmed the joint commitment of both countries to promoting stability and rule of law, particularly in West Asia, which, according to both ministers, must be determined by the people of the region free from foreign interference.
