Iran and China Strengthen Military Cooperation

During a meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Kazakhstan, the defence ministers of China and Iran have reached an agreement to enhance their military cooperation.

Brigadier General Mohammed-Reza Astiani from Iran emphasized the importance of increased cooperation and unity to address regional and global security challenges after discussions with China’s Admiral Dong Jun in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan.

Due to its nuclear program and support for non-state militant groups in the Middle East, Iran faces international isolation. In response, the country has been forging closer relationships with Russia and China.

Seeking new alliances, Iran became a member of the SCO in July 2023 and also joined the BRICS organization earlier this year, consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.

China has emerged as a significant economic partner and the primary importer of Iranian oil. Both nations solidified their relationship by signing a 25-year cooperation agreement in 2021.