 "Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghch met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing. Images: Reuters")
With less than a month before Donald Trump returns to the White House, China has pledged to bolster cooperation with Iran on “mutual core interests,” suggesting deepening ties as both nations prepare for the potential resumption of US sanctions pressure.
During talks in Beijing on Saturday (December 28), Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi discussed enhancing bilateral relations, regional stability, and multilateral collaboration through platforms like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and Brics.
“The two sides should continue to support each other on issues of mutual core interests, steadily advance practical cooperation, and improve collaboration in the multilateral sphere,” Wang said, according to a Chinese foreign ministry statement.
Wang also highlighted the importance of closer ties within the Global South, adding, “We will further strengthen Brics and better safeguard the common interests of the Global South.”
Regional and global challenges on agenda
The talks addressed regional crises, including conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. Both sides agreed on the urgency of restoring Palestinian rights, ending Gaza’s occupation, and providing humanitarian aid.
“An immediate ceasefire, a full withdrawal of troops, and urgent humanitarian assistance are imperative,” the Chinese foreign ministry said, emphasizing the need to enforce a ceasefire in Lebanon.
Wang also encouraged Iran to maintain communication with Saudi Arabia, referencing last year’s Beijing-brokered peace deal between the two regional rivals.
China’s support critical to Iran
China remains Iran’s largest trading partner and a crucial buyer of its oil, reportedly circumventing international sanctions by importing through third countries. Beijing has also played a key role in integrating Iran into multilateral frameworks like Brics and the SCO.
The strategic partnership with China is “a priority of Iran’s foreign policy,” Araghchi said, bringing into focus Beijing’s importance in discussions on Iran’s nuclear program.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsTrump’s incoming administration is expected to renew its “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran. His cabinet picks, including Middle East adviser Massad Boulos and Israel ambassador Mike Huckabee, signal a more hardline stance.
Mounting pressure, growing coordination
China has repeatedly backed Iran on the international stage, particularly since the war in Gaza escalated. In September, Wang assured Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian that “China has always been a trustworthy partner of Iran.”
Araghchi noted that Iran and China are preparing for anticipated challenges under the new US administration. China and Iran “have consistently maintained close consultations” on all regional and international matters, he said.