TEHRAN – Chinese Ambassador to Tehran Chang Hua wrapped up his diplomatic mission in Iran with a farewell meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian on Saturday.

During their encounter, Ambassador Chang Hua lauded Iran's rich cultural heritage and the hospitality demonstrated by its people. 

He expressed gratitude for the steadfast support received from various diplomatic channels during his tenure as China's envoy to Tehran, reaffirming China's unwavering commitment to bolstering relations with Iran to an unprecedented level.

In response, Foreign Minister Amir Abdollahian acknowledged ambassador Chang Hua's commendable efforts and substantial contributions to advancing bilateral ties between Tehran and Beijing across various domains. 

This recognition encompassed their joint initiatives during the COVID-19 pandemic and the successful implementation of a comprehensive strategic cooperation program between the two nations.

China holds the position of being Iran’s primary trading ally. Both nations face varying degrees of unlawful sanctions imposed by the United States. 

In recent times, the two countries’ relationship has grown stronger, notably following the reimplementation of sanctions on Iran's economy by the U.S. in 2018, subsequent to its unilateral withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear agreement.

In March 2021, the two countries entered into a significant 25-year partnership deal, aiming to bolster their enduring economic and political bond.