Mr Raisi walks with Mr Xi during a welcoming ceremony in Beijing. Wana/Reuters


Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed his support for Iran's efforts to find a resolution to its nuclear issue during Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's first state visit to China in over 20 years. The visit aimed to strengthen trade and economic ties between the two countries. The Iranian delegation in Beijing included the central bank chief and ministers for oil and mining.

During the meeting, President Xi stated that China backed the protection of Tehran's rights and the early resolution of the nuclear issue. He further pledged China's participation in resuming negotiations on Iran's nuclear agreement. This comes as Iran is already facing strict US sanctions due to its nuclear program.

Xi also emphasized Beijing's "solidarity" with Iran, stating, "In the face of the current complex changes in the world, times, and history, China and Iran have supported each other [and] worked together in solidarity and co-operation."

Iran and China have a strong economic relationship, particularly in energy, transit, agriculture, trade, and investment. In 2021, the countries signed a 25-year "strategic cooperation pact."

Iran and China are both under western pressure over their stance on Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which started about a year ago. Iran has emerged as one of Russia's few remaining allies as Moscow has been pushed deeper into international isolation over the invasion.

The Iranian leader was given a red carpet greeting, with 21 cannons fired and the national anthems of Iran and China played during the welcoming ceremony. Iran is expected to sign a number of "cooperation documents" during the visit.