By Mohammad Keshavarzzadeh, Iran’s former ambassador to China and a member of the Academic Council of the Tianxia Think Tank
Over the past decades, Iran and China have maintained a complex relationship shaped by US pressure, sanctions, and regional developments. While both countries have sought to protect their shared interests, China has continued to balance its strategic partnership with Iran against its extensive ties with the Arab countries of the Persian Gulf and other regional actors.
Despite Beijing’s opposition to unilateral US sanctions and its support for Iran’s sovereignty, differences remain, particularly over regional security and the Strait of Hormuz. China is neither a traditional ally nor merely an economic partner; it pursues its own interests. Understanding these realities and identifying areas of convergence and divergence are essential to bringing Iranian and Chinese perspectives on West Asia closer together.
Similarities and Differences Between Iran and China’s Views on West Asia
1. The United States: Both countries oppose unilateralism and excessive US influence, but Iran adopts a more confrontational regional approach, while China seeks to manage its competition with Washington.
2. Regional Order: Both support regional dialogue, non-interference, and security frameworks led by regional countries, creating significant potential for cooperation.
3. Relations with Arab Countries: Iran maintains close ties with certain regional actors while facing political and security rivalries with some Arab states. China, by contrast, seeks balanced relations with Iran and the Arab countries of the Persian Gulf, as demonstrated by its mediation between Iran and Saudi Arabia.
4. Israel and Palestine: Both support Palestinian statehood, but Iran views Israel as a major regional threat, while China seeks to maintain relations with both Israel and regional actors.
5. Energy: Iran prioritizes energy exports and market access, while China focuses on secure energy supplies and transport routes. These interests offer substantial opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation.
The Strait of Hormuz: Converging Interests
Iran views the Strait of Hormuz as a strategic security and deterrence tool, while China sees it as a vital energy and trade corridor. Despite differing priorities, both share an interest in regional stability, creating opportunities to align their perspectives and strengthen cooperation.
Recommendations for Bringing Iran and China’s Perspectives Closer
Make Hormuz Security a Shared Interest
Frame the security of the Strait of Hormuz as a common regional interest linking Iran’s national security with China’s energy security.
Separate Deterrence from Disruption
Reassure China that Iran’s deterrence capabilities need not entail persistent threats to commercial shipping and energy flows.
Establish Strategic Consultations
Activate high-level bilateral mechanisms and establish regular consultations on West Asian security, energy, Palestine, and regional conflicts.
Promote Regional Dialogue
Leverage China’s ties with Iran and Arab countries to advance regional security cooperation, including a potential non-aggression pact between Iran and Persian Gulf Cooperation Council states under Chinese facilitation.
Link Iran’s Stability to China’s Interests
Highlight how Iran’s stability and infrastructure can support China’s long-term interests in energy, transport, transit, ports, and regional connectivity.
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