TEHRAN – China has expressed its appreciation for the recently declared positive outlook on Sino-Iranian relations by Iran's president-elect, Masoud Pezeshkian, and affirmed its readiness to collaborate with the new administration of the Islamic Republic.

The remarks were made by Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, during a press conference held on Monday. Lin was responding to inquiries regarding an article penned by Pezeshkian on Saturday, in which the president-elect emphasized Iran's anticipation of expanded cooperation with China. In this article which was published in the Tehran Times, Pezeshkian highlighted China's consistent support for Iran during difficult times, stating, "We deeply value this friendship."

Acknowledging Pezeshkian's statements, Lin affirmed Beijing's appreciation for his stance on the bilateral ties and expressed China's willingness to work with future Iranian officials to further the steady and long-term development of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement.

He emphasized that China and Iran have supported each other through the complex regional and international landscape, enhancing strategic mutual trust and promoting cooperation across various fields. The two nations’ healthy communication and coordination in regional and international affairs, according to Lin, have benefited both nations and contributed to regional and global peace and stability.

China, Iran's largest trading partner, shares a history of facing various levels of sanctions imposed by the United States. In March 2021, the two nations signed a landmark 25-year partnership agreement aimed at bolstering their economic and political alliance. This agreement, first announced during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s 2016 visit to Tehran, outlines cooperation between China and Iran in political, cultural, security, defense, regional, and international domains over the specified period.

Pezeshkian referred to the agreement as "a significant milestone towards establishing a mutually beneficial comprehensive strategic partnership," and expressed optimism about working more closely with Beijing as both nations navigate towards a new global order.