By Atoyebi Nike
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has met with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, to discuss the aftermath of Iran’s recent conflict with Israel and to explore broader cooperation between the two countries.
According to a statement issued Wednesday by Iran’s Foreign Ministry, Araghchi provided Wang with updates on the post-ceasefire situation and the evolving security dynamics in the region. The talks occurred on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) foreign ministers’ summit.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry affirmed Beijing’s backing of Iran’s sovereignty and voiced opposition to “power politics and bullying,” a phrase widely interpreted as a rebuke of Western influence.
The meeting comes just weeks after the conclusion of a 12-day war between Iran and Israel in June, and follows increased diplomatic and military outreach from Tehran, especially towards allies like China and Russia.
Citing a recent analysis by the U.S.-based Institute for the Study of War, Iran is reportedly seeking to purchase Chinese fighter jets to modernise its outdated air force. However, China has publicly denied reports that it is selling air defence systems to Tehran.
Facing ongoing international sanctions, Iran has over the years intensified its domestic arms production and pursued closer military cooperation with Russia, although attempts to acquire Russian Su-35 fighter jets have not yet materialised.
While Iran continues to push for stronger military ties with China, many analysts believe a full-scale strategic alliance remains unlikely, pointing to China’s cautious approach in maintaining regional balance and avoiding entanglement in Middle Eastern conflicts.
