Beijing has expressed expectations for comprehensive discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi during his visit to China this week, aiming to strengthen political trust and cooperation between the two nations.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated on Tuesday that both sides would engage in “in-depth exchanges” on bilateral relations as well as pressing international and regional issues of mutual interest.
The visit comes just days before a third round of nuclear negotiations between Iran and the United States. Araghchi had previously traveled to China in December; China remains a key stakeholder in the 2015 nuclear agreement, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), which placed limitations on Iran’s nuclear program.
China is Iran’s largest trade partner and the top importer of Iranian oil, despite stringent U.S. sanctions. Iranian media reports indicate that roughly 92% of Iran’s oil exports are directed toward China, often sold at discounted rates.
In 2021, Iran and China signed a long-term strategic partnership agreement covering sectors such as energy, infrastructure, security, and telecommunications.
Beijing emphasized its longstanding relationship with Tehran on Tuesday. “The two countries have continued to maintain mutual respect, trust, and support, advancing stable and healthy bilateral relations while contributing to both regional and global peace and security,” Guo noted.
The JCPOA was originally signed by Iran and six major powers — China, Russia, the United States, Britain, France, and Germany — along with the European Union. However, in 2018, then-U.S. President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from the accord, prompting Iran to scale back its compliance a year later.
Now back in office, Trump has resumed calls for renewed nuclear discussions with Tehran, though he has also issued warnings of possible military measures.
Western nations continue to accuse Iran of seeking to develop nuclear weapons — allegations Tehran consistently denies.
While Iran’s foreign ministry announced that Araghchi’s visit would begin on Tuesday, China reported it would commence on Wednesday.
