China and Iran Enhance Cooperation Ahead of BRICS Summit
Tehran Seeks BRICS Membership
Overt Operator
August 22, 2023
As the BRICS summit "looms" on the horizon, China and Iran have reaffirmed their commitment to bolstering cooperation, paving the way for potential collaboration within the bloc. This development gains significance with Tehran's expressed interest in becoming a part of the influential BRICS group.
Foreign Ministers Wang Yi of China and Hossein Amir-Abdollahian of Iran engaged in discussions just two days before the start of the highly anticipated BRICS summit in Johannesburg. Their dialogue underscores the eagerness of both nations to deepen their partnership and explore avenues of collaboration.
The diplomatic bond between China and Iran was solidified two years ago when they inked a strategic cooperation agreement worth a substantial US$400 billion. This landmark agreement serves as a cornerstone of their bilateral relations, showcasing their joint determination to strengthen economic and political ties.
China's diplomatic efforts also extended to mediating a significant deal between Iran and Saudi Arabia, aimed at restoring diplomatic relations after a lengthy nine-year hiatus. This successful diplomatic intervention has been described as generating a "tide of reconciliation," highlighting China's constructive role in diffusing regional tensions.
The evolving relationship between China and Iran is taking place against the backdrop of Tehran's aspirations to join the BRICS bloc. The BRICS group, composed of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, constitutes a coalition of emerging economies. Apart from Iran, numerous other nations, including Bangladesh, Bolivia, Indonesia, and 53 African countries, have extended invitations to the three-day summit scheduled to commence in Johannesburg.
The current geopolitical landscape is witnessing a growing number of countries expressing their interest in aligning with the BRICS group.