Tehran, Iran — In a significant gesture of solidarity, Chinese President Xi Jinping’s special representative, Zhang Guoqing, attended a memorial service in Tehran on Wednesday for Iran’s late President Ebrahim Raisi. Zhang also held talks with Iran’s Interim President Mohammad Mokhber, emphasizing the deep ties between the two nations.
Zhang, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Vice Premier of the State Council, conveyed President Xi’s heartfelt condolences. “President Xi sent a message of condolence following the unfortunate passing of President Raisi and appointed me as his special representative to attend the memorial service,” Zhang said. “This reflects the high importance President Xi and the Chinese government attach to China-Iran relations.”
On behalf of President Xi, Zhang expressed deep sympathy to the Iranian government, people, and Raisi’s family. “At this difficult time, the Chinese people stand firmly with the Iranian people,” he stated, expressing confidence that Iran would overcome its temporary difficulties and continue progressing in national development.
Zhang praised the late President Raisi for his significant contributions to Iran’s security, stability, and prosperity. “President Raisi made positive efforts to consolidate and deepen the China-Iran comprehensive strategic partnership,” he noted. “His passing is a great loss to the Iranian people, and the Chinese people have also lost a good friend. China deeply regrets it.”
The Vice Premier reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations. “The Chinese government and people cherish our traditional friendship with Iran. We firmly support the Iranian government and people in safeguarding independence, stability, and development, and we are willing to work with Iran to further deepen our comprehensive strategic partnership,” Zhang concluded.
Interim President Mokhber expressed profound gratitude to President Xi for sending Zhang as his special representative. “We deeply appreciate China’s support during this challenging time,” Mokhber said. “Iran will, as always, continue to develop relations with China and is willing to work together to deepen cooperation in various fields, elevating our comprehensive strategic partnership to a new level.”
The visit of China’s special envoy underscores the strong and enduring relationship between China and Iran, highlighting their mutual commitment to collaboration and support amid times of national mourning.
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Xi's special representative attends memorial for Iran's late president
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