In a strategic diplomatic move, Iran has appointed Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf as the country's special representative for China affairs. The announcement, reported by the semi-official Fars news agency, highlights Tehran's focus on strengthening its relationship with the Chinese mainland.
Ghalibaf succeeds Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli, the current Iranian ambassador to China, and Ali Larijani, the former secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council. Larijani was killed in a US and Israeli attack in March of this year.
The appointment comes on the heels of Ghalibaf's prominent role in international diplomacy. He recently served as Iran's chief negotiator in peace talks with the United States, which followed the ceasefire established on April 8 after 40 days of fighting between Tehran and Washington.
By assigning a seasoned negotiator and high-ranking official to lead China affairs, Iran aims to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape of 2026 while reinforcing its key partnerships in Asia.
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Iran appoints parliament speaker as special envoy for China affairs
cgtn.com
