Iran closes ranks with China: finance minister calls for a “new chapter of strategic partnership” amid U.S. sanctions

Iran is pushing for stronger economic ties with China, as Al Jazeera reports, citing Iran’s state news agency IRNA. Iranian Finance Minister Ali Madanizadeh has told China’s finance minister that Tehran seeks to deepen economic cooperation with Beijing.

Referring to China’s position in the global economy, Madanizadeh stressed the two countries’ potential for expanded trade and investment. He thanked Beijing for its support for Iran’s sovereignty and for humanitarian aid during the conflict, adding that the two countries are moving towards a “new chapter of strategic partnership” and the implementation of the 25-year comprehensive cooperation plan, according to IRNA.

Tehran’s call comes just a day after the U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned China-based firms and businessmen for procuring weapons and spare parts for the Iranian military. China remains one of Iran’s largest trading partners, and the Trump administration has faced criticism over its sanctions campaign against Beijing in this regard.

The development comes as the U.S. and Israeli war against Iran continues, with the American naval blockade of Iranian ports in force and indirect talks mediated by Qatar taking place on the margins of the UN sessions in New York.