Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, who is currently in China for bilateral talks, noted on Tuesday that his country would like to see the Chinese government take a more active role in implementing the historic nuclear agreement and resolving the conflict in the Middle East.

During his meeting with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Zarif noted that China had a key part to play in the negotiations that led to the nuclear agreement in July. He said Iran expects China to continue to enjoy a prominent role in the implementation of the agreement.

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Zarif also said his country is willing to join hands with China in bringing peace to the Middle East. "We would like to cooperate with China on issues in Yemen, Syria and the Middle East, seeking a political solution," he said.

Zarif said once the economic sanctions against Iran are lifted, the country will be able to continue co-operating with China in key areas of the mutual interest, including energy and trade. He described the sanctions imposed against the country by western powers as "illegal."

While meeting with Zarif, Premier Li Keqiang explained that mutually beneficial cooperation between Iran and China would boost the production capacity in both countries. Li said China values its relationship with Iran and is willing to further strengthen their ties. He also noted that China is willing to continue to play a leading role in resolving Iran's nuclear issue and to ensure stability in the Middle East.

Wang spoke about the need to contain the "unrest" in parts of the African continent. He also said it is imperative for all sides to "deliver their promises" regarding the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action on Iran's nuclear issue.

Experts say China is looking to Iran to resolve the country's massive energy needs. China has invested heavily in Iran's oil sector. Prior to the economic blockade against Iran, the country supplied up to 10 percent of China's oil demands. China has reduced its purchase of oil from Iran since economic sanctions were imposed against the country, but experts say this is expected to change soon.

TagsIran-China, Iran Nuclear Deal China, Mohammad Javad Zarif, China-Iran ties, China Iran Oil, China Iran Relations