Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi began a visit to China on Wednesday for consultations regarding the nuclear issue, ahead of the third round of negotiations with the United States.
اضافة اعلان
The third round of talks, mediated by Oman, is scheduled to take place on Saturday in Muscat. The discussions will be led by Araghchi and U.S. envoy Steve Whitkoff.
In parallel, Iranian and American experts are set to begin technical talks about Iran’s nuclear program in the Omani capital.
Speaking to Iranian state television, Araghchi said, "It is essential for us to keep our friends in China informed about the progress of the negotiations and to consult with them."
China is one of the signatories of the 2015 nuclear agreement, from which the United States withdrew in 2018 during Donald Trump’s first term.
The Iranian diplomat added, "China played an important and constructive role in the nuclear issue in the past, and it is certain that the same role will be necessary in the future."
The 2015 nuclear agreement called for lifting international sanctions on Iran in exchange for restricting its nuclear program and placing it under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
According to the IAEA, Iran had been complying with its obligations under the deal until the U.S. withdrawal, which was followed by the reimposition of American sanctions.
China remains Iran’s largest trading partner and one of the main purchasers of Iranian oil, which remains under sanctions.
On Tuesday, China expressed its expectation for "in-depth" discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi during his visit to Beijing this week, noting that both countries would work to "strengthen mutual political trust."
Iranian media reports suggest that about 92% of Iranian oil exports go to the Asian giant, often sold at discounted prices.
In 2021, Beijing and Tehran signed a comprehensive 25-year strategic agreement. This partnership covers a wide range of sectors including energy, security, infrastructure, and telecommunications.
