Islam Times - Iran Eyes Close Alliance with China, Russia in Countering US Unilateralism

Islam Times - Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian expressed his administration’s determination to promote cooperation with China and Russia in countering the US’ unilateral policies.

Pezeshkian made the comment on Wednesday as he hosted Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing in Tehran.

He said the US is pursuing totalitarianism and unilateralism in the international arena, adding, “We are determined to expand our cooperation with Russia and China in line with countering unilateralism.”

Pezeshkian also said that Iran and China have enjoyed “friendly and close cooperation”, and “today the ties between the two countries are strategic.”

The Iranian president further said that his administration is pursuing the implementation of Iran-China Comprehensive Strategic Cooperation Agreement, adding that he held constructive talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the 16th BRICS Summit in Russia’s Kazan in late October.

“In the latest meeting, we reached good understandings with Mr. Xi Jinping, and your trip to Tehran to follow up on these understandings is indicative of the Chinese government’s determination to expand relations with Iran”, Pezeshkian said, his official website reported.

Zhang Guoqing, for his part, conveyed warm greetings and best wishes from President Xi to Pezeshkian, describing Iran as an important country that plays an effective and constructive role in the international arena.

The Chinese vice premier said that his trip to Iran is aimed at following up on the understandings reached between Xi and Pezeshkian in Kazan.

“Iran is a strategic and important partner for China”, Zhang Guoqing said, adding that China intends to strengthen its “strategic and long-term ties” with Iran.

He further said that Beijing is pleased with Tehran’s cooperation to deepen bilateral relations, adding that the two sides also share useful cooperation at the international organizations to counter unilateralism.