China–Iran relations must be based on common interests; Iranian diplomat
“The Iran-China agreement should be based on the pursuit of mutual interests,” a former Foreign Ministry spokesman told ILNA.
Ramin Mehmanparast, a former spokesman for Iranian Foreign Ministry and also a former ambassador to Poland said in an interview with ILNA news agency that Iran in its foreign policy must have long-term, medium-term, and short-term plans based on its interests in different countries.
Explaining about the Iran-China 25-year comprehensive cooperation agreement, which approved by Iran's government, he added that the details of the issues on this agreement are not yet known so I can't talk about it so much.
“Relations with China can also be regulated in such a way that both our interests and China's long-term interests will be met.”
Asked whether Iran's frustration with the European approach may have led Tehran to turn to China, ex-diplomat confirmed “We need to have long-term plans to connect with different countries in different ways.”
“We have plans with China, Russia, and some Asian countries based on our interests and we can also have long-term policies for European countries.”
Ramin Mehmanparast said that Europeans have limited diplomatic relations because of US sanctions and have failed to maintain their independence.
The Iranian Cabinet approved the final draft of a 25-year roadmap for Iran-China strategic relations earlier in June.
“We reached an agreement on deepening of comprehensive strategic cooperation between the two countries, promoting of bilateral 25-year cooperation plan and supporting each other in international issues,” Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said in a tweet in Chinese language.
END