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TEHRAN \u2013 Hossein Eyvazlou, a member of the executive board of Iran\u2019s National Development Fund (NDF), announced plans for collaboration with China in the field of foreign investment in Iran.<\/p>\n
Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, January 4, Eyvazlou highlighted the importance of attracting foreign capital to boost Iran’s economic projects, emphasizing the role of strategic partnerships with countries like China.<\/p>\n
Details on the scope and nature of the cooperation were not disclosed, but it is expected to focus on key sectors that align with Iran\u2019s long-term development goals.<\/p>\n
On December 20, a Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) representative announced that the Chinese investors are prepared to fund the construction of combined-cycle power plants in Iran\u2019s energy-rich Khuzestan province to help address the country\u2019s energy imbalance and boost regional economic development.<\/p>\n
Zhao Bin He, the Executive Director of SCO\u2019s Iran Office, made the remarks during a meeting with Khuzestan\u2019s governor and local religious leaders. \u201cWe are here to pay our respects to provincial authorities and outline China\u2019s plans for strengthening economic and trade ties, with a particular focus on Khuzestan,\u201d Zhao said.<\/p>\n
He highlighted the historical and enduring relationship between Iran and China, describing it as built on mutual respect, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange.<\/p>\n
\u201cKhuzestan\u2019s strategic position in southwest Iran and its vast economic potential make it a key player in enhancing Iran-China relations,\u201d Zhao added. \u201cWith access to the Persian Gulf and proximity to strong regional economies, Khuzestan offers exceptional opportunities for port infrastructure development and maritime transport.\u201d<\/p>\n
Zhao reiterated China\u2019s readiness to actively participate in developing Khuzestan\u2019s infrastructure, expanding port capacity, and exploring joint projects in energy, industry, and agriculture.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are also open to collaborating on sports infrastructure development in the province,\u201d he added. \u201cDespite sanctions, Iran has achieved remarkable progress in scientific, economic, and political arenas, reflecting the determination and capabilities of its people.\u201d<\/p>\n
Also in a meeting between the economic operators of Iran\u2019s southern Hormozgan province and Cong Peiwu, China\u2019s Ambassador to Iran, held on December 10 to explore opportunities for economic, cultural, and trade cooperation between the two nations, Mohammadreza Safa, the head of the Hormozgan Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the province\u2019s investment potential in maritime and mining industries, saying: \u201cWe hope the challenges facing Hormozgan\u2019s economic operators will be resolved. Our request is to facilitate visa issuance for business and tourism professionals to streamline processes.\u201d<\/p>\n
He emphasized the Chamber\u2019s readiness to send trade delegations to China and welcome Chinese investors to Hormozgan.<\/p>\n
China’s Ambassador Cong Peiwu underscored the province’s strategic significance for trade relations, calling Hormozgan \u201cone of the best regions\u201d to expand economic and investment partnerships.<\/p>\n
\u201cChina\u2019s economic growth, which has secured the second global ranking in recent years, benefits not only China but also other nations, including Iran,\u201d Cong stated.<\/p>\n
He noted that diplomatic ties, strengthened since 1971, reached a milestone with the 25-year cooperation agreement signed in 2016.<\/p>\n
Cong highlighted the agricultural and food sectors as key areas for enhanced cooperation, stressing the potential for exporting Iranian produce, such as fruits, dried fruits, and seafood, to China.<\/p>\n
\u201cChinese consumers have a strong preference for seafood, creating significant opportunities for Iranian products in the Chinese market,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Addressing educational and cultural exchanges, the envoy pointed out that Chinese universities offer favorable conditions for Iranian students, while Chinese students also show interest in studying in Iran. \u201cThe presence of Chinese students at the University of Hormozgan strengthens cultural ties,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n
The ambassador further emphasized maritime transportation as a vital area for cooperation, particularly through the revival of maritime trade routes known as the \u201cMaritime Silk Road.\u201d He described these routes as essential for bolstering sustainable trade between the two countries.<\/p>\n
The ambassador further acknowledged external pressures on China-Iran relations, asserting their resilience. \u201cThe ties between our two countries are stronger than ever. We do not support financial warfare of any kind. The future of Iran-China cooperation is bright, with economic, cultural, and trade relations as top priorities,\u201d Cong stated.<\/p>\n
During the meeting, the strategic capacities of Bandar Abbas and Jask were introduced as key economic hubs, with Hormozgan officials reiterating the province\u2019s readiness to attract Chinese investors.<\/p>\n
The discussions laid the groundwork for further initiatives to capitalize on economic, cultural, and academic opportunities between Iran and China.<\/p>\n
Iran and China have strengthened their economic relations in recent years, particularly through the 25-year Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement signed in 2021. The deal includes cooperation in areas such as energy, infrastructure, transportation, technology, and trade, with China committed to investing billions of dollars in Iran\u2019s key sectors.<\/p>\n
China remains Iran’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade exceeding $14 billion in 2023. Iran exports crude oil, petrochemicals, and minerals to China, while importing industrial machinery, electronics, and consumer goods. Additionally, both countries are partners in major international frameworks, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and China\u2019s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which aim to enhance regional connectivity and infrastructure development.<\/p>\n
The energy sector plays a pivotal role in Iran-China cooperation, with Chinese firms involved in developing Iran\u2019s oil and gas fields, as well as power generation projects. Zhao\u2019s announcement of investment plans in Khuzestan aligns with China\u2019s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the Middle East and help address Iran\u2019s energy needs.<\/p>\n
As Iran seeks to attract foreign investment despite international sanctions, cooperation with China provides a vital lifeline for its economic growth and infrastructure development.<\/p>\n
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