On October 23, during the BRICS Leaders’ Meeting in Kazan, Russian President Xi Jinping met with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi.
During the meeting, Xi emphasized the significant regional and international influence of Iran, noting that the country is a close friend and partner of China. He highlighted that, amidst the rapidly evolving global landscape, the strategic importance of China-Iran relations has become even more pronounced. Regardless of changes in the international and regional contexts, China is committed to unwaveringly developing its friendly cooperation with Iran. Xi expressed China’s support for Iran in maintaining its sovereignty, security, and national dignity while steadily advancing its socioeconomic development and fostering amicable relations with neighboring countries. He underscored China’s willingness to strengthen mutual support with Iran, uphold principles of non-interference in domestic affairs, and protect the legitimate rights and interests of both nations. Xi also expressed a desire to enhance cooperation across various fields, aiming for a robust and stable development of the comprehensive strategic partnership that would benefit the people of both countries.
Xi congratulated Iran on its first official participation in the BRICS Leaders’ Meeting, expressing China’s eagerness to collaborate with Iran within the BRICS and other multilateral frameworks to elevate the influence and voice of the Global South and work towards a more just and equitable international order.
In response, Raisi remarked that China is Iran’s most important partner and that the comprehensive strategic partnership is progressing well across diverse fields. He emphasized the need for both nations to work together to implement their cooperation plans effectively, particularly in areas like connectivity, infrastructure, and clean energy, which would not only aid Iran’s national development but also promote regional peace and stability. Raisi reiterated Iran’s desire to continue steadfast mutual support on core issues and to collectively oppose hegemony and bullying. He thanked China for its backing of Iran’s formal inclusion in the BRICS cooperation mechanism and expressed hopes for close collaboration on BRICS and other multilateral platforms.
The two leaders also exchanged views on the current situation in the Middle East. Xi conveyed China’s deep concern regarding the tensions in the region, underlining that achieving a ceasefire in Gaza is crucial for de-escalating the situation. He called for the international community to come together to urge all parties involved to fulfill UN Security Council resolutions and avoid further turmoil in the region.
The meeting was attended by officials including Cai Qi and Wang Yi.
